Remedies for Baby Eczema

If you are seeing dry, red and crusty rash spots appearing on baby's skin, it's probably baby eczema. Eczema affects infants but is mostly seem in 5- to 7-year-olds. Although there is no routine medical treatment for eczema, it's fairly easy to remedy at home.

Identification

Eczema will show up on baby's skin as small raised bumps that are red with a white crust, and may also be surrounded by thickened skin that appears scaly. It can show up on baby's face, scalp, arms, legs, butt, belly or back. Usually the rash starts out like a small patch of dryness and, if untreated, will get larger and dryer.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is an effective moisturizer and great for soothing the skin; use it in the bath by adding 1 cup of oatmeal to a warm bath. There are measured oatmeal baby bath packets available in stores.

Organic Baby Soap

Switch to an oatmeal-based or organic baby soap for bathing. Using harsh baby products full of chemicals will only irritate the eczema. It's also important to keep the affected area clean using warm water.

Topical Treatment

Apply a topical treatment throughout the day. Find an oatmeal-based lotion or thick cream for cracked skin. Avoid lotions with perfume or chemicals. This lotion or cream should be applied to the entire body after bathing. If you keep the area moisturized and clean, the eczema should clear up on its own.

Causes

Having allergies, asthma or hay fever can lead to eczema. For infants, having a family history of these can cause eczema. Avoiding baths that are too hot and making sure to moisturize baby's skin after bathing will help. Also avoid overdressing baby because sweating will make eczema worse. Certain heavy fabrics like wool or polyester should be avoided, and exposure to allergens should be limited.