Eczema is a type of skin rash often associated with allergy and asthma reactions; the direct cause is usually unknown, but eczema in young children may continue later in life. Eczema on the scalp, otherwise known as cradle cap or seborrhea, is common and usually temporary; eczema on the skin is known as atopic dermatitis. It is most commonly found behind knees, on hands and around the ears, and it can spread across the face and legs. This type of baby eczema is characterized by red, patchy and scaly skin and an intense itch. Although there is no known cure, and the eczema may continue throughout life, flare-ups can be reduced and controlled with careful home remedies and maintenance to supplement a doctor’s treatments.
Bleach Bath
During flare-ups, eczema skin often cracks and may become infected by bacteria on the skin. In the early 2000s, studies showed that using diluted bleach in bath water successfully improved eczema symptoms, possibly because of reduced bacterial infection in the open and irritated skin. Adding 1/2 cup to a full bath up to twice a week improves skin lesions and soothes, but it can cause excess dryness in some individuals.
Olive Oil
Petroleum jelly and thick creams are suggested to lock moisture into the irritated skin from baby eczema. If eczema skin dries out in between use, or when these products are not available, olive oil from the kitchen pantry provides the same effect. Olive oil soothes, softens and reduces irritation at flare sites; it also provides an oily, water-blocking barrier on the skin similar to petroleum jelly.
Probiotics
Atopic dermatitis is a long-term disorder that is linked to the immune system, much as allergic reactions and asthma are. In particular, eczema in babies has been linked in the early 21st century to food allergies and intolerances. Probiotics may have the potential to reduce both allergies and eczema in certain infants; a 2005 study reported in the journal Allergy reported eczema improvement in 32 percent more of milk-allergic children who received probiotics than of children who received placebo. More connections and treatments may be revealed with continued study.
