Eczema in newborn babies

Eczema is a common skin complaint in babies. The skin turns red, flakes and becomes irritated. Although it’s annoying, your little one usually grows over it on their own. When your baby is suffering from an eczema, it is important to keep your baby’s skin well greasy so that it remains protected. Eczemas often occur on the hands, face, neck, elbows, back and the hollow of knees. In those places, the skin barrier is somewhat more fragile, making it more susceptible to infections and allergies.

Many babies are affected by eczemas. The three most common forms are atopic eczema, seborrheic eczema, and contact eczema. All three forms can manifest themselves on your little one’s face. 

1. Atopic eczema is mainly visible on the cheeks, chin and around the eyes. It is known as “neonatal acne”. Skin becomes red, dry and flaky.  Although it is very unpleasant for your little one, it is not contagious and often occurs in babies with sensitive skin. 
2. Seborrheic eczema is also called “cradle cap”. It often occurs on the scalp and sometimes around the eyebrows of babies. This form of eczema causes yellowish flakes to form on your baby’s skin. This form, too, is usually harmless and goes away on its own. Learn more about cradle cap in this blog.  
3. Contact dermatitis occurs when sensitive skin reacts to something it comes into contact with. Think of a particular detergent, soap or even saliva. It can cause red, itchy spots. This form of eczema can also occur due to an allergy to cow’s milk.

Eczemas in babies are often caused by sensitive skin, which naturally dries out faster. This can be a hereditary condition, and you often see it in families that also have hay fever or asthma. Your little one’s skin will then retain less moisture, making it dry and prone to skin irritation.

There are several things that can aggravate eczema, such as:

• Frequent washing with soap and water (this dries out the skin)  
• Lots of sweating (e.g. in hot weather)
• Cold or heat
• Wool or other skin-irritating fabrics in clothing
• Scratching with itching

Sometimes viruses such as colds or flu can also irritate the skin. An allergic reaction to certain foods can sometimes worsen an eczema. The good news?  Dust mites or food does not aggravate an eczema. 

You can recognize an eczema by red or dark spots on the skin. They are often dry and flaky. Sometimes you will notice that bumps, blisters or even small scabs have formed. In babies under the age of 2, eczemas often occurs on the face, head, elbows and knees, and upper body. 

Do you want to relieve your little one’s symptoms? We understand! We have listed a few for you here. 

• Avoid scratching as much as possible. This often makes the itching and eczema worse. Keep the nails short and put on socks or mittens to protect your baby’s hands. Distracting yourself with a game or reading aloud can also help when your baby starts scratching.
• Keep skin hydrated. Dry skin can aggravate the itching. Bath or shower your baby up to 2 to 3 times a week in lukewarm water (around 37 degrees) and for no longer than 5 minutes. Use as little soap or shampoo as possible and add a few drops of odorless oil to the bath water if necessary. After bathing, lubricate the skin with a soothing cream or ointment to protect the skin and retain moisture.
• Choose the right clothing. Loose-fitting cotton clothing is best. Avoid wool or warm clothing that can irritate the skin. Especially at night, when the itching often gets worse.
• Hugs are always good alternative! Eczemas are not contagious, so you can safely cuddle and touch your little one.

If the itching and irritation persists, the doctor may prescribe a special cream that reduces inflammation and itching. 

Do you want to keep a close eye on your baby? Download The Wonder Weeks app. Our app will help you discover why your child cries more often or upset, and what you can do about it.