Atopic dermatitis or eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that is common in little ones. It is relatively harmless but it can be very uncomfortable for babies. Usually, babies are born with perfect skin, unblemished and beautiful. Sometimes when babies are about 2 or 3 months, eczema may erupt in patches of red, dry, flaky skin. It is usually in visible places like the face, behind the ears and on the scalp.

It might spread to the elbow creases, behind the knees and even around the groin. In extreme cases, small pimples that form and fill up with fluid and then burst are an unsightly scene. Other than not being a pretty sight it could be very itchy for the little one which would make them very fussy. Thankfully, it is neither dangerous nor contagious and usually resolves itself. Eczema can be inherited but if it is not caused due to genetics, measures can be taken to prevent this condition. If the baby has already started to develop symptoms of atopic dermatitis, some home remedies will help manage the skin condition.

• It is advised to bring the baby outside without sunscreen for a few minutes every day. The ultraviolet rays help to reduce skin inflammation.
• It is recommended to drape cool, wet washcloth or gauze over the baby’s irritated skin. It should be kept on for 5-10 minutes at a time or at least till the baby will cooperate.
• During bath times, it is advised to sprinkle a little bit of baking soda, uncooked oatmeal, or colloidal oatmeal which is made specifically for baths. This is an effective home remedy to curb the effects of atopic dermatitis.
• Applying lotions with soothing calendula, chamomile or extra water content according to the pediatrician’s recommendations is advised.
• Babies should be dressed in layers so that the garment can be removed partially when it gets warm as sweating can reboot the eczema cycle.
• Studies show that probiotics which are friendly live bacteria help to ease atopic dermatitis when it is added to dry baby formula in powder form or served as a dietary supplement.
• It is ideal to keep baths lukewarm and short so that it does not dry out the tender skin of the baby.
• Once the baby has had a bath, it is best to lock in the moisture by applying a gentle hypoallergenic baby lotion and re-applying the lotion twice a day.
• To keep the skin of the baby super hydrated, it is best to use a cool-mist humidifier in the baby’s bedroom but remember to clean it frequently to prevent the build-up of bacteria.
• Always rinse the baby’s clothes an extra time to get rid of detergent residue that can irritate the baby’s skin and use a laundry detergent made for sensitive skin while washing baby’s clothes.
• Watch out for food allergies that could cause eczema breakouts. Reduce citrus fruits, cow’s milk, eggs, chocolate, and nuts in your diet if you are breastfeeding the baby.
• Keep animal pets at a safe distance from the baby as animal dander and saliva can trigger atopic dermatitis.