Eczema in infants can be frustrating for parents and baby alike. Eczema refers to itchy, reddened patches of skin that come and go on different areas of the skin. One out of 10 babies has eczema, according to the Nemours Foundation. The rash may be dry and scaly, or pimply and moist. Infantile eczema, or atopic dermatitis means reddened skin caused by a sensitivity to allergens, according to Nemours. Eczema can't be cured, but it can be controlled.
Causes
While eczema can't be cured, it can be decreased by avoiding the triggers that activate the immune response in the skin. For infants, this can be detergents, soaps, food they or their breastfeeding moms eat, dust or cigarette smoke. According to Alan Greene, M.D. rubbing the skin or wet skin caused by drooling, milk or sweating can also cause eczema. Some foods are more likely to be irritant than others. The list of common triggers includes dairy products, strawberries, citrus foods, tomatoes, nuts, eggs and cow's milk.
Eliminating Triggers
Eliminating foods that seem to be irritants to see if the eczema improves is not as difficult as it seems. Start by eliminating milk products by substituting soy based formulas. Don't overheat the baby with too many clothes, and use natural fabrics whenever possible. Use detergent especially made for sensitive skin, Dr. Greene recommends.
Decreasing Itching
Antihistamines may be prescribed orally to decrease itching. Tepid, short baths can also decrease itching, but long hot baths should be avoided, since they dry out the skin in the long run, according to Dr. Greene. Running a humidifier may also help keep the skin from drying out and itching. Baby's fingernails should be kept short. Scratching can break the skin and result in bacterial infections.
Creams and Lotions
Moisturizing lotions should be applied twice a day, preferably when the skin is damp, as after a sort bath. Avoid products that contains perfumes, which may aggravate the problem. Lotions or creams that contain hydrocortisone are available over the counter and in prescription strength from the doctor. The lowest dose that works should be used, according to Dr. Greene. Long term use of steroids can thin the skin. Newer topical treatments include pimicromilus and tacrolimus, an immune suppressant, but this drug should not be used on children under age 2, according to the FDA.
Wet Dressings
For severe eczema, treatment in the hospital may include saturating cotton dressings with water or an antiseptic solution and wrapping them around the affected skin, according to the Mayo Clinic.
