If your infant has Eczema, it may be caused by many things – changes in the weather, contact with an irritant or from an allergy, etc. But, eczema is not contagious – it is a skin rash that may or may not be inherited.
Eczema in babies will usually occur from ages two months to two years. It is seen as a red, itchy rash that may crack with weeping, oozing, crusting, scaling, thickening, etc. If the condition goes untreated or the cause is not detected the rash gets worse.
Prevention of Infantile Eczema
- Avoid salt and sugar in your infant’s diet.
- Breastfeeding is the best baby food. As the mother you can protect your baby from developing allergies.
- Avoid feeding your infant foods that can cause them to develop eczema – milk, chocolate [cocoa, coffee, tea, cola] citrus, tomatoes, cinnamon, artificial flavorings and colors, nuts, preservatives. If you breastfeed your baby and eat these foods, you might also cause your child to develop eczema.
- Don’t use soaps, bubble bath or bath oils on infants. Their skin can be safely cleaned with plain water. A once-a-week bath with mild soap should be sufficient. Pat [don’t rub] his/her skin dry. See blog – Baby Skin Care: Tips for Your Newborn
- On dry skin, use a little olive or castor oil.
- Be sure your baby is wearing soft clothing made from natural fibers like cotton. Their bedding should be soft as well.
Following these simple measures can help prevent eczema and the discomfort it will cause you and your infant.
