Up to one-fifth of infants may suffer from baby eczema at one point or another. It is distinguished by red patches of dry, leathery skin located on the joints of the legs and arms, as well as on its cheeks. The patches may be tender to the touch, rough, and dry. Many factors can cause baby eczema and natural skin care may help lesson its effects.
Infant eczema is also referred to as atopic dermatitis. There are many causes and can be difficult to isolate the factors causing it. Harsh soaps, synthetic fibers in clothing, environmental and dietary allergies may all lead to outbreaks. Heredity plays a strong part in outbreaks, and it has even been suggested that fluoride treated drinking water may serve as a factor. Outbreaks may start before the child reaches their first birthday, and usually stop by the time the child reaches four years old.
As with any medical condition, it is best to consult your family physician so that you may make an informed choice about treatment options. Outbreaks can be treated with topical steroid creams, antibiotics and exposure to UV light. There are other options besides treating outbreaks with prescription medicines. These alternatives may help to reduce outbreaks, without exposing your child to strong medicines. Before starting any home remedies, carefully research them to identify warnings and side effects.
By controlling the factors that may cause outbreaks, it is possible to help stop it. Use only mild and unscented soaps and detergents for clothing, and avoid synthetic fibers. Wash any new clothes before using them. Consider changing diets to avoid certain foods such as dairy products, nuts and soy products. Allergies may be passed from breastfeeding mothers to the infants, so both diets need to be evaluated.
For bathing infants use mild unscented soap. Oatmeal based products have been used with some success, as well as salt water, epsom salt, and apple cider vinegar mixed in with the bath water. Limit the contact with water, by using a shower, and wash only areas that need it. Pat your child dry with clean dry towels, and do not rub affected areas.
Natural creams, Shea butter, and petroleum jelly can be used on patches to help relieve itching and redness. Check the list of ingredients and to make sure it is not too harsh for use on infants.
Most children will grow out of outbreaks. While not a life-threatening problem, it does cause redness, irritation, and itching. Carefully research baby eczema and natural skin care methods before starting any treatments to ensure their safety of your children.
Infant eczema is also referred to as atopic dermatitis. There are many causes and can be difficult to isolate the factors causing it. Harsh soaps, synthetic fibers in clothing, environmental and dietary allergies may all lead to outbreaks. Heredity plays a strong part in outbreaks, and it has even been suggested that fluoride treated drinking water may serve as a factor. Outbreaks may start before the child reaches their first birthday, and usually stop by the time the child reaches four years old.
As with any medical condition, it is best to consult your family physician so that you may make an informed choice about treatment options. Outbreaks can be treated with topical steroid creams, antibiotics and exposure to UV light. There are other options besides treating outbreaks with prescription medicines. These alternatives may help to reduce outbreaks, without exposing your child to strong medicines. Before starting any home remedies, carefully research them to identify warnings and side effects.
By controlling the factors that may cause outbreaks, it is possible to help stop it. Use only mild and unscented soaps and detergents for clothing, and avoid synthetic fibers. Wash any new clothes before using them. Consider changing diets to avoid certain foods such as dairy products, nuts and soy products. Allergies may be passed from breastfeeding mothers to the infants, so both diets need to be evaluated.
For bathing infants use mild unscented soap. Oatmeal based products have been used with some success, as well as salt water, epsom salt, and apple cider vinegar mixed in with the bath water. Limit the contact with water, by using a shower, and wash only areas that need it. Pat your child dry with clean dry towels, and do not rub affected areas.
Natural creams, Shea butter, and petroleum jelly can be used on patches to help relieve itching and redness. Check the list of ingredients and to make sure it is not too harsh for use on infants.
Most children will grow out of outbreaks. While not a life-threatening problem, it does cause redness, irritation, and itching. Carefully research baby eczema and natural skin care methods before starting any treatments to ensure their safety of your children.
About the Author:
Natural skin care is important regardless of the age of the person. Baby eczema should be solved with the right soothing items..