Eczema in Babies
What is eczema?
Eczema (eg-zuh-MUH) is the name for a group of conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy and inflamed.
There are several types of eczema and seborrheic dermatitis, also known as “cradle cap” in infants, are the most common types that affect children. Eczema, especially atopic dermatitis, often appears in the first six months to five years of a child’s life.
Cradle Cap
This thick scurfy scalp can appear soon after birth or when the baby is a few months old. It can develop suddenly. The scalp becomes coated with greasy yellow scales that stick to the head giving a crusty appearance. This scaliness can affect other parts of the baby’s face and head including the forehead, temples, eyebrows, behind the ears and in the neck folds. The skin underneath the scales may look sore, but it is not a condition that causes discomfort or itching and baby will feed and sleep as normal.
During the first few weeks the condition is usually due to the continuing secretion of the greasy coating seen on babies straight after birth. When this dries up the scalp clears.
Why did my baby develop eczema?
What exactly causes eczema is unknown. Researchers don’t know why babies develop eczema, though they do know it’s due to a combination of environmental allergens and genetics. Eczema in babies can cause rashes on a baby’s skin, itchy skin and eczema flare-ups in the affected areas.
A variety of environmental factors can trigger eczema in infants, including certain cleansers, soaps and shampoos. Dry air and ointments can also trigger baby eczema.
If your baby suffers from eczema, consult with a pediatric dermatologist or qualified pediatrician. While they might prescribe a steroid, such as a topical corticosteroid, other steroid cream or an antihistamine, there’s other more natural treatments your healthcare provider could recommend. These can include over-the-counter medications, Vaseline petroleum jelly and fragrance-free products made for sensitive skin.
Treating eczema in babies and toddlers
Eczema is not contagious. You can’t “catch it” from someone else.
For most types of eczema, managing flares comes down to these basics:
- Know your child’s particular triggers to avoid exposure
- Implement a daily bathing and moisturizing routine to protect skin and lock in moisture
- Use over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medication consistently and as prescribed to curb symptoms
There is no cure for eczema but there are treatments and more are coming. These include OTC remedies, prescription topical medications, phototherapy, and immunosuppressants.
Fixaderm for Eczema Treatment
Due to its natural ingredients, Fixaderm is suitable for everyone. It is, although, not recommended for infants below the age of 12 months.
Because Fixaderm consists of a blend of plant oils, with no mineral oils or petroleum products, it is rapidly absorbed into the skin and is soothing and non-greasy. Tested and refined over several years, Fixaderm is designed to alleviate discomfort, help prevent infection, and promote healing.
For eczema, current reports indicate that Fixaderm can help control the discomfort caused by psoriasis and eczema during its active stages.
Fixaderm is TGA approved for a range of skin repairs which certifies the ingredients contained in the formula to be of the highest standard. It contains a nourishing blend of plant oils such as evening primrose oil, jojoba oil and rosehip oil. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, with the addition of tea tree, lavender & patchouli oil for antiseptic and anti-fungal properties the formula aids in the generation of new cells and strengthening the skin!
References
https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/children/
https://www.eczema.org.au/babies-who-have-eczema/