How to treat baby eczema

Answer Section

Bathing and moisturizing are key to treating baby eczema, which also is called infantile atopic dermatitis. Give your child a short lukewarm bath or shower every day or every other day. Use a mild, nonsoap cleanser that's labeled fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.

After a bath of 5 to 10 minutes, rinse completely, gently pat your baby dry and apply a fragrance-free cream or ointment such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline) while the skin is still damp. Moisturize at least twice a day, perhaps at diaper changes. When trying a new moisturizer, test it on a small area of the child's skin first to make sure it's well tolerated. Keep using this skin care routine even if your child's skin looks and feels better.

The symptoms of baby eczema also may be eased by avoiding irritants — such as itchy fabric and harsh soaps — and extremes in temperature. To prevent your child's scratching the rash, it may help to keep your baby's nails clipped short or to put on cotton mittens during sleep.

Have your baby examined if the condition persists or the rash is crusty and weepy or has blisters. A child who has a fever and rash also may need to be seen by a healthcare professional. Talk with your child’s healthcare professional about using a medicated cream or ointment or trying bleach baths to ease symptoms.

Most children outgrow baby eczema by 3 to 5 years of age.