About Infant Eczema
It is estimated that one in six children will develop Infant Eczema, it is also know as Atopic Dermatitis and is a skin condition that can be extremely itchy. Like the skin condition psoriasis, the severity of eczema fluctuates for no apparent reason. The skin may be completely clear for a time and then will break out in what is termed a flare up. One common feature of children who develop it is that they have dry skin, it is also common for them to be susceptible to allergies such as hay fever or Asthma. Approximately fifty percent will outgrow the condition while the others will suffer the symptoms into early adulthood.Can Infant Eczema be Cured
As the exact cause has still not been proven so to has a definitive cure eluded scientists. Although an immediate cure is not available, the symptoms can be treated and held in long term remission and there are many products, both medicated and natural available to you. Infant Eczema generally appears on the cheeks of the face, in some cases it will spread over the face down the neck onto the torso including the arms and legs. With infants the problem is exacerbated due to the inability to communicate and if allowed to scratch the rash may bleed allowing a secondary infection to occur. For more information on this topic go to Infant Eczema Blog.
How best to Treat it
If we look at the two possible causes, we can use the information to determine a good plan of treatment. As stated above there are two features or triggers common amongst children who suffer it.
- Dry Skin
- Susceptible to allergies
Firstly it is imperative to keep the skin hydrated at all times, keep the area moisturized and do not let it dry out. Only bath the child once a day in lukewarm water for no longer than fifteen minutes, pat the skin dry and immediately apply a non fragrance moisturizer. Avoid hot conditions which would cause the child to sweat and keep the area humidified.
Secondly take all precautions to avoid the child coming into contact with anything that could set off an allergy. Below is a list of precautions to take for the babies room.
- Free of dust mites
- No stuffed animals
- No pets
- No cigarette smoke
- No chemical spray such as mosquito repellent.
While the above techniques are recommended for very mild Infant Eczema, if the condition is causing the baby stress or if the condition worsens please consult with your doctor or pediatrician.
