The 10 Best Treatment Options for Baby Eczema

As a new parent, we often deal with new experiences and challenges. From the first moment we bring our newborn bundle into this world, we want to do our best. However, there are times when we have to deal with unexpected situations. This skin condition, known as atopic dermatitis (eczema), is common in babies and adults. It appears as a dry, itchy rash on the feet, face, hands, stomach, and scalp. Various reasons can bring it on, such as allergies from washing detergents, food coloring, food allergies, and more. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 10 best treatment options for baby eczema. 

Oatmeal Baths

Eczema causes itchiness, inflammation, and irritation to the skin. Oatmeal has a soothing effect when applied to the skin. It holds in moisture, which can keep the skin from drying out. Oatmeal also has inflammatory qualities that can benefit the skin. To help your baby with eczema, you can easily make an oatmeal bath. First, prepare lukewarm water, then add 1 cup of colloidal oats and soak in the bath for approximately 10–15 minutes. Furthermore, you can purchase Ellaola colloidal oats on Amazon. It has a 4.5-star rating and was created by Harvard pediatric dermatologists. Each sachet is fragrance-free, soap-free, and designed for babies who are prone to eczema.

Corticosteroids

If your baby’s eczema is severe, your doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid cream, foam, or gel to help improve inflammation. It is advised not to use these steroid treatments on a long-term basis. The reason behind this is that the skin can become damaged and thinner. Corticosteroids should only be used as prescribed by your doctor and only dabbed lightly on the affected area.

Tropical or Oral Antibiotics

Eczema is not an infection, and it also can’t be transferred from one person to another. However, if your little one scratches the affected area and breaks the skin, it can lead to an infection. To avoid this, it is best to make sure that the baby’s nails are clean and kept short to avoid bacteria growth under the nail beds. Should the skin become infected, your pediatric doctor may recommend an oral or topical antibiotic.

Antihistamines

When a baby has severe eczema that is untreated, the pediatrician may prescribe an antihistamine. This is where the baby scratches so much and can cause an infection in the affected area, and they could need bandages to prevent them from scratching further. You can help prevent this by keeping the baby’s nails clean and short.

Airy Clothes

When it comes to clothing your baby, who suffers from eczema, you should be mindful of how you dress them. It is best to dress them in light and airy clothing. As the body sweats, tight clothing can lead to more heat than necessary and cause bacteria to build up in the affected area. Before bed, dress your baby in skin-soothing pajamas that are made with natural ingredients. Mustela’s is a highly recommended brand.

Laundry Detergent for Sensitive Skin

Babies have sensitive skin, and some laundry detergents contain strong chemicals that can cause eczema. Therefore, it is best to use a gentle laundry detergent and fabric softener. Arau Baby and Arm & Hammer Baby Hypoallergenic Liquid are great choices.

Unscented Emollient Rich Creams

Using an emollient-rich, unscented cream can help soothe dry skin. These types of creams create a film over the skin’s outer layer. Doctors often recommend these types of creams for those who suffer from psoriasis and eczema. Aveeno Baby Dermexa is highly recommended. It immediately soothes the skin and contains a high concentration of oat oil, oat extract, and prebiotic oatmeal.

Acidity in Foods

Trying to determine what causes your baby’s skin to flare up can be quite frustrating. It may be a laundry detergent, or it could be something that they have eaten. You may notice that there is redness around your baby’s mouth after he or she has eaten ketchup or spaghetti with marinara sauce. This is because tomatoes are quite acidic, and when they touch the skin, it can cause redness, irritation, and even swelling. If you have noticed this before, try eliminating tomatoes from your baby’s diet.

Natural Immune Booster

We focus on two primary nutrients when it comes to eczema. Vitamin D is necessary for the development of a baby’s immune system and promoting allergic tolerance. Omega 3’s are naturally anti-inflammatory, and they moisturize the skin from the inside out. Additionally, you can give your baby a probiotic supplement. These supplements help add good bacteria to the stomach.

Cold Pressed Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is so versatile and has been around for centuries. It has antibacterial properties, and we use it in cooking. Research has shown that oil pulling with coconut oil may lower the bad bacteria in the mouth, preventing gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth decay. Moreover, coconut oil is beneficial for the skin; it can be applied to treat sunburn and is a topical relief for those who suffer from eczema. Apply it to the affected area or add it to bath water to soothe the skin. 

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