This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.
Baby Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) affects 15-20% of all children and often starts between 3 and 6 months of age. The skin is chronically dry, inflamed, and intensely itchy. It is NOT a matter of hygiene — eczema has genetic and immunological causes.
Possible Causes
- 1Genetic predisposition — more common in families with allergies, asthma, or hay fever
- 2Impaired skin barrier: skin loses too much moisture and lets irritants penetrate
- 3Immune system overreaction to harmless environmental triggers
- 4Triggers: dry air, wool, sweat, stress, certain detergents, dust mites
- 5Food allergies (in about 30% of children with severe eczema, especially cow's milk, egg, wheat)
What You Can Do
- Daily moisturising with lipid-replenishing base cream — the foundation of treatment (2-3x daily, even in clear phases)
- Cotton clothing directly on skin — no wool or synthetics
- Use mild, fragrance-free soap and detergent
- Cortisone cream short-term during flares — ONLY as prescribed by doctor in the correct strength
- Identify and avoid triggers: keep a food and symptom diary
When to See a Doctor
- Weeping, crusted, or pustular skin areas (bacterial superinfection, often staphylococcus)
- Severe itching that massively disrupts sleep
- Eczema spreading rapidly over large areas
- Fever together with inflamed skin (skin infection)
- Blisters on eczema skin (herpes infection → eczema herpeticum, EMERGENCY)
- Child scratches until bleeding or is inconsolable with itching
Age-Specific Notes
3-6 months: Common onset, typically on face (cheeks) and outer arms and legs. From 1-2 years: Shifts to elbow creases, behind knees, and wrists. About 60% of children outgrow eczema by puberty, but the tendency towards dry skin often remains.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is cortisone dangerous for my baby?
Should I avoid certain foods for my baby?
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This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.