Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a common condition in infants, according to the National Library of Medicine. The skin, typically on the face, may appear red, blistered and cracked. Other places eczema may appear are on the elbows, knees, neck, trunk and hands. The condition is often itchy, painful and irritating. According to the Mayo Clinic, the exact cause of eczema is unknown, but is possibly a combination of dry, irritated skin coupled with a malfunction in the body's immune system. Certain factors can worsen the condition, but are not the cause. Treatments depend upon the severity, but generally include topical steroid creams and ointments, applying moisturizers and avoiding triggers.
Allergies
Infants who have allergies are prone to have eczema. Allergies to milk, foods and seasonal irritants are common among infants with eczema. In addition, infants who have asthma or whose family members experienced eczema in infancy are likely to have the condition.
Irritants
While irritants are not the cause of eczema in infants, they can cause the condition to flare up. Infants with eczema should be dressed in cotton clothing that is not course or abrasive, should not be overly exposed to heat and sun, and according to Alan Greene, M.D, should not consume cow's milk, eggs, peanut products and citrus fruits. In addition, laundry detergent, scented lotion, soaps and other skin care products not formulated for sensitive skin should not be used.
Bathing
Another practice that can increase eczema symptoms in infants is long baths. According to Greene, bathing in general was once considered harmful, but new information indicates that long baths and irritating soaps are the problem for most infants. The pruning effect that can be seen after exposure to water for long periods of time disrupts the moisture-retaining layer of the skin, which can worsen the condition. Frequent bathing in lukewarm water with mild soap (or no soap at all) is recommended.
