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How to Cope With Baby Eczema
Skin Care - Eczema
Around 20 percent of all infants around the world develop what is called Baby Eczema. Presenting itself as a skin rash before the baby turns one year old, eczema is a common affliction. Approximately 65 percent of people who suffer from this condition have symptoms as early as when they were infants. Baby eczema can usually be seen on the scalp, forehead, or cheeks, but it can also be observed in the chest, arms, or legs and can spread to all parts of the body. For new parents who are unfamiliar with this skin condition, seeing rashes on their baby’s skin can be frightening.

Baby eczema are often seen as scaly, thick, dry skin; it can also manifest as small bubbly bumps, reddish in color, that can ooze or blister. If the rash is scratched excessively, there is a serious risk of infection. Eczema is often very itchy; because of this, scratching can be a craving that one cannot help but indulge in. This skin condition is not contagious, but it can be uncomfortable for the baby and the parents who are trying to deal with this condition.

Experts and doctors have not yet discovered the cause of eczema, whether in adults or in infants, but they all agree on the fact that while eczema itself is not hereditary nor contagious, the tendency to develop eczema may be passed down. To put it more simply, if you or your parents or siblings have developed eczema in the past, there is a high likelihood that your baby will also develop it. Eczema itself is not caused by an allergic reaction to anything, but its onset can be caused by allergic reactions to the environment or even to the baby’s diet. Babies can also develop allergic reactions to a mother’s diet, if she is breastfeeding. The baby’s eczema can be made worse by heat, irritants, or chemicals in lotions, creams, soaps, and laundry detergents. If the baby has dry skin or sudden changes in temperature, this can also aggravate the skin condition.

There are many days to deal with the development of baby eczema. One of the rules of the thumb that you should never forget is to prevent the skin from getting too dry. Bathing will alleviate the discomfort of the baby due to the rash, but avoid water that has become too warm because this tends to cause dryness to the skin. Very mild soaps and shampoos that do not contain fragrances or scents should be used. Also, while bathing, shampooing should be done at last so that the baby will not have soak in soapy water. Consult your doctor once you suspect eczema. Your pediatrician or dermatologist can give suggestions as to what creams should be used for your baby.

Your baby should be dressed loosely in clothes that have cotton as the fabric. Wool can make the skin condition worse, and should thus be avoided. Sudden changes in temperature can also aggravate the eczema. Clean your home regularly because allergens such as dust mites, animal fur, or pollen can worsen or trigger your baby’s eczema. With proper care and prevention, eczema will not be more than a minor discomfort, and not a major crisis.