Tips for Managing Eczema for your Baby or Toddler
Choosing the right newborn pajamas, moisturizer and bathing routine could be key to managing your child’s eczema from the start.
Featuring toddler pajamas from Cassie Collection
If you find your little one has dry, flaky or rash-looking skin, have no fear! These may be common signs of “infant eczema,” which – although not contagious – can be uncomfortable for your baby or toddler. In addition to helping you understand eczema, we’ll examine a few ways you can manage your child’s eczema symptoms at home. Of course, you should always consult a doctor with any health-related concerns!
Infant eczema is often used as the term to identify multiple skin conditions that may start to appear as early as two months old: atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is the most common form of “infant eczema” and can be more easily treated. It develops from contact with irritating substances, so any rash usually clears after the irritant is removed. On the other hand, atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition that may run through your family history. While it will surely be stressful for you to see, it’s common enough that more than 20% of children under 18 years old have had an eczema diagnosis.
Read More >> Tips for Managing Eczema for your Baby or Toddler
It could come down to something as simple as the newborn pajamas you dress your baby in at night or the baby lotion you received as a gift. Narrowing down any potential irritants in your baby’s life could reduce symptoms of contact dermatitis. Here’s where to start!
5 Ways to Manage your Baby’s Eczema
Choose the Right Materials – Soft, breathable materials are a key step to managing eczema. Fabrics like our ultra-soft bamboo (used for our toddler and newborn pajamas and more), cotton and other natural materials will help to reduce eczema symptoms and relieve discomfort. In our case, most of our baby clothes and toddler clothing are made with viscose derived from bamboo, which is considered by the National Eczema Society to be one of the most attractive options for people with eczema. Don’t worry, we made pajamas for you too, mama! (Find adult pajamas here.)
Bathe More and Cautiously – When it comes to bath time, avoid using any fragrance-heavy products. Make sure to use mild cleansers, lukewarm water and skip the bubble bath. Daily baths are a great start to managing eczema. Limiting bath time to 5-10 minutes will also help reduce potential eczema symptoms. After the bath, try gently patting their skin until barely dry to reduce scratching on the skin. Then follow with any medicine your doctor prescribes before applying a mild moisturizer.
Experiment with Moisturizers – Finding a moisturizer for your child isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. While a thick cream or ointment is usually the way to go, you may have to experiment to find one that works for them. Because some children will have better results with fragrance-free products, petroleum jelly is another popular choice.
Keep Nails Short – Newborn mittens (like what you’ll find on select infant gowns and kimono sets in the shop) are great for reducing scratching that may cause skin irritation or aggravate eczema flare-ups. Like adults, children have a tendency to scratch at their dry skin, so frequent nail trimming can reduce discomfort.
Wash with Mild Soaps – Try switching to a laundry detergent designed for sensitive skin and consider fragrance-free options. More mild soaps can help reduce the potential of an eczema flare up. Also, avoid overdoing it on the detergent and closely follow the recommended amount for washing their favorite toddler pajamas so that the soap does not become irritating.
It’s very normal for children between 2 months and 4 years old to experience eczema symptoms, but remember that most do see symptoms clear as they age. For children with persistent atopic dermatitis, consult your doctor to find a prescription that is best for your child. Eczema is manageable with the right combination of solutions, and you will find something that works to help them feel comfortable.
Parents of children with eczema, have you discovered any other helpful treatments for eczema?
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