1 in 5 children in India have dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin, and most moms don’t even know about it. They are constantly worried, trying to do everything they can to get rid of the redness, rashes & itchiness. If only they knew that it is very common and easily manageable without a prescription. Here’re a few easy steps you can follow at home to take care of your sensitive-skinned baby’s dry skin:
Moisturisation
Eczema(Atopic Dermatitis) essentially occurs due to the lack of moisture in skin. Hence, the best way to treat it is by using a lotion for Eczema prone skin that prevents water loss and replenishes the skin with moisture. Look for body lotion for dry skin that are chemical-free and gentle on your baby’s very dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
According to a study, products with 1% colloidal oatmeal acts as a great moisturiser for eczema-prone skin. The colloidal oatmeal has the ability to temporarily protect the skin and help relieve minor itching and irritation due to Atopic Dermatitis.
Bathing
Switch to mild, non-soap cleansers and shampoos, especially the ones that are made for sensitive skin. According to a research, you can bath your baby daily for 10-15 minutes in lukewarm water. But make sure to use natural bath products that are mild, hypoallergenic, and do not contain artificial fragrances.
Food
Is there anything that mother’s milk cannot do? Studies have shown that children who are breastfed exclusively, for four to six months, develop a stronger immunity and are less prone to eczema & associated allergic reactions.
Some children with eczema are allergic to milk, fresh fruit juices, eggs, peanuts & soy, but that doesn’t mean these food items have caused their skin to be eczema-prone. Be sure consult your pediatrician before removing any particular food from your child’s diet.
Clothing
If your baby has eczema-prone skin, avoid rough & scratchy fabrics like synthetic & polyester. Make her wear comfortable, breathable fabrics like cotton that do not cause her to sweat. Avoid woollen & synthetic clothes that can irritate your baby’s sensitive skin and set off an eczema break-out.
Hygiene
Dust, mould, and germs can also irritate your baby’s sensitive skin and trigger eczema flare-ups. Keep your surroundings clean and your home free of dust, mites and even fragrances – if you need to.
Regularly change your baby’s mattress and bedding linen. And ensure that your baby’s clothes and bed linens are washed with mild, skin-friendly detergents which are chemical-free. Avoid fabric-softeners.
Prevent from scratching
In order to relieve the itch, babies tend to rub the irritated area against the bed or carpet. This aggravates the condition, causing them to be cranky and sleepless.
To minimise irritation on your baby’s sensitive skin, use the softest sheet possible for her crib and bed. And try and distract her from scratching by covering her hands with mittens and keeping her nails short.
If your child has dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin, incorporate these little tips in her daily routine. If you still see signs such as oozing, crusting and pus bumps that can cause skin infection, make sure to consult your doctor.Take a look at Common Myths for Itchy & Eczema-Prone Skin (Debunked).