Eczema in little ones can be more common than you may expect. In these conditions, it can be very uncomfortable for babies & toddlers as the skin can become itchy, inflamed, and irritated. There are many causes of baby eczema such as immune system dysfunction, environmental factors, food allergies, or the gut skin connection.
Whilst investigating the cause & supporting our babies' nutrition & overall health is the ultimate goal there are many at-home supports that can give your children relief & make them more comfortable while also reducing their eczema flare-ups.
Oatmeal baths:
Oats can be soothing to irritated skin as they contain compounds that are anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and protective for the skin barrier. Try adding 1 cup of organic gluten-free oats (ground up) to a bath of warm/lukewarm water. Soak your little one in this bath for 10-15 minutes.
Chamomile baths:
Much like oatmeal baths, chamomile can also be soothing for your baby’s eczema. Adding in one pot of cooled chamomile tea to your baby’s bath. You can also mix the oatmeal & chamomile together.
Calendula oils:
Calendula is a beautiful herb that is anti-inflammatory, moisturising, soothing to the skin & also promotes wound healing. Try to infuse a carrier oil such as almond oil, or MCT oil with a cup of dried calendula flowers. Infuse in the cupboard for 2 weeks and add to your baby's eczema after baths.
Avoid hot baths/showers:
Try to keep your baby's water lukewarm as the heat can create further irritation to their skin, and avoid synthetic soaps or bubbles.
Keep skin moisturised:
Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser multiple times daily to keep their skin hydrated and prevent dryness. Opt for creams or ointments with chamomile or calendula in them to provide better moisture. We love brands like Wotnot & Weleda.
For more support:
We make personalised creams in clinic to support skin conditions including babies eczema/ dermatitis/ nappy rash etc. Investigating the cause of your little on is a great place to start, book in with one of our naturopaths for support.
