One in 10 babies will develop eczema, according to KidsHealth.com. Eczema is a skin rash that is triggered by common allergens such as dust mites, pollen and pet dander. Symptoms of eczema typically appear between two and six months of age. Eczema is red, itchy and can develop into oozing sores if not treated properly. In rare cases, severe eczema can leave permanent scarring on a baby's body. Various methods of treating eczema can provide relief to a baby.
Bleach Bath
A recent study cited in the journal Pediatrics showed that soaking a baby for five to 10 minutes twice a week in a diluted bleach bath significantly improved the baby's eczema. The study used a half a cup of bleach in a full standard bathtub of water. Consult your pediatrician before administering this treatment.
Moisturize the Skin
Moisturizing the baby's skin may be the most effective preventive treatment for eczema, according to Dr.Greene.com. Use a moisturizing cream at least twice a day to keep the skin from getting dry. Dry skin can quickly lead to an eczema flare-up. Over-the-counter cortisone creams can be used on patches of eczema to keep the skin from getting overly irritated, according to KidsHealth.org. Petroleum jelly may also be used on dry spots of the skin or patches of irritation.
Avoid Irritants
Avoiding irritants such as cigarette smoke, soaps and air pollution can help minimize baby eczema, according to Dr.Greene.com. A baby's skin is more sensitive than an adult's, so it reacts more easily to common irritants. Avoid cigarette smoke by asking people to smoke outside the home or at a distance where it will not affect the baby. Hypoallergenic body soap and laundry detergents should be used to minimize exposure to harsh fragrances. An air purifier may be needed to cleanse the air in the baby's room to remove pollutants.
Avoid Allergens
Avoiding common allergens can help clear up baby eczema, according to the Baby Center. Because a baby is too young for a proper allergy diagnosis, parents should keep their children away from possible allergens. During pollen season, the baby should be kept indoors as much as possible. Keep the baby away from pets or confining the pets to a particular area of the house. Dust often to prevent dust mites.
