Baby Eczema

What does eczema look like in babies?

Infant eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that affects around 20% of children.  It is characterised by dry, red, raised, rough, itchy patches on your baby’s skin. The common areas eczema will develop on your baby’s skin are the wrist folds, back of the knees and ankle folds. Patches can become moist and infected.  A doctor or specialist dermatologist will be able to diagnose eczema upon examination and advise you on the best management, which may include a baby eczema cream.

What causes eczema in babies?

Common eczema causes are difficult to detect, triggers can include:

• Allergies to foods such as dairy protein and environmental factors such as dust and pollens;
• Intolerance to foods such as salicylates in fruit and vegetables and additives in some processed foods;
• Intolerance to scented substances such as makeup, perfume and cleaning products;
• Hereditary factors;
• Aggravation by rough or tight clothing, sand, dry air and dirt.

Does baby eczema go away?

Firstly, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional that specialises in eczema management. As the exact cause can be difficult to determine, a doctor will be able to help you narrow down what might be triggering your baby’s eczema. Managing those identified triggers of your baby’s eczema will be the best way to help your baby’s eczema go away.

Keeping a diary of when eczema flares up, where you were or what your baby ate, may help your doctor with their diagnosis.

Be diligent with daily care of your baby’s skin to keep it clean and moisturised, and intact. Your healthcare professional will advise whether you need a special infant eczema cream.

How to dress baby with eczema at night?

• Dress your baby in light, loose fitting clothes made from natural fabric (e.g. cotton, muslin). Avoid wool, scratchy or synthetic fabrics;
• Wash bedding and clothes in fragrant free washing liquid and rinse well. Be mindful that even these washing detergents may be a trigger for your child’s eczema, you may need to trial different brands if you think your little one is reacting. 

Tips to manage baby eczema:

• Avoid perfumed bath wash and soap – use low irritant products or just water;
• Protect your baby’s skin by applying moisturisers containing essential fats several times a day;
• When laying baby on the floor or ground for play time use cotton blankets and avoid laying baby directly on carpet, grass or sand;
• Continue to breast feed for as long as possible.
• Other topical infant eczema creams or prescribed creams may be available specially for eczema, talk to your healthcare professional for advice first before applying new creams to inflamed areas.

The good news is that most children grow out of the condition by two to five years of age. 

Frequently asked questions about baby eczema

What is the 3 minute rule for eczema?

The "3 Minute Rule" for eczema is a simple yet effective guideline for managing dry skin. It suggests that after a bath, you should apply a moisturiser within three minutes to lock in moisture. This short window is important because the skin is most receptive to hydration immediately after being exposed to water. By adhering to this rule, parents can help soothe their child's eczema, reduce dryness, and improve overall skin health by promoting a healthier skin barrier. 

What is the best thing for baby eczema?

The best approach for managing baby eczema involves a combination of strategies such as using moisturisers (regular application of fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin, applied immediately after bathing helps to lock in moisture); gentle short baths with lukewarm water; avoiding triggers (to minimise exposure to potential irritants or allergens, such as certain fabrics, soaps, and environmental factors); and in some cases using medication prescribed by a doctor). It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalised recommendations tailored to your baby's specific needs.

What triggers most baby eczema?

Baby eczema, or atopic dermatitis, can be triggered by various factors, including irritants (e.g. soaps, detergents, fragrances, and certain fabrics like wool); allergens (such as dust mites, pet fur, pollen, and mould); some weather conditions (e.g. extreme temperatures, humidity, cold or dry air); food allergies; sweat and heat; or stress. Identifying and avoiding these triggers can help manage and reduce the frequency of eczema rashes in newborns and babies. Talk to your healthcare professional for personalised guidance.

Does breast milk help eczema?

Breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies that support the overall immune system, which can be beneficial for babies with eczema. Some parents apply breast milk directly to the skin, as it contains natural fats and proteins that may help moisturise and soothe irritated skin - while breast milk may help, it shouldn’t replace eczema treatments recommended by your doctor.

Which food triggers eczema?

The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) identifies several common food allergens that are known to trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. These include peanuts; tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, and hazelnuts); eggs; milk (cow's milk); wheat; soy; fish; shellfish (such as shrimp, crab, and lobster) and sesame. These foods are among the most common allergens and can lead to various allergic reactions, including eczema flare-ups in some individuals. If your baby has started solid food and you suspect food allergies, it is important to talk to your doctor for proper evaluation and management.