How to Treat Baby Eczema With Home Remedies
Ten percent of children develop eczema, according to the Nemours Foundation. The condition causes red, raised, itchy patches of skin that may ooze or blister, and it usually occurs on the face or scalp of infants. While steroids and antihistamines are commonly prescribed to treat eczema in babies, many parents prefer to try home remedies before agreeing to medications that may cause unpleasant side effects. Fortunately, there are a number ways to reduce itching and inflammation without using medications.
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Instructions
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Home Remedies Lessen The Chances of Harmful Side Effects
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Bathe your baby using only lukewarm water. Remove your child from the bath before his skin begins to prune. Soap should only be used when necessary, as it may dry the skin and worsen eczema.
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Add oatmeal flakes to your baby's bath to help ease itching. Make sure you ask your baby's pediatrician before use, and discontinue if you notice an increase in itching or irritation.
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Apply a moisturizing lotion. Spread it around any dry areas of skin immediately after taking your baby out of the bath. Avoid using scented lotions.
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Dress your baby in natural fabrics. Cotton is best to encourage air circulation and allow his skin to breathe. Stay away from wool and other rough materials, which may increase itching and inflammation.
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Use cool compresses to relieve itching and sooth inflammation. You can apply the compresses several times throughout the day, as needed.
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Run a humidifier in your baby's room at night; this will help to keep his skin hydrated. Use a cool-mist humidifier to reduce the risk of burns, and place the humidifier in a location safe from children and pets.
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Identify any possible allergens that may be triggering your baby's eczema flare-ups. Common allergic triggers for eczema include cow's milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soy, citrus and fish. If you are breastfeeding, remove these foods from your diet for a couple of weeks to see if there is an improvement in your baby's condition.
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Avoid using dryer sheets or scented laundry detergent when washing your baby's clothes. Oftentimes, these products may irritate sensitive skin and increase itching.
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Tips & Warnings
Baby eczema nearly always clears up by two years of age, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
