Baby Eczema - What It Is and How to Treat It

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition in babies. It affects around 13% of children in the U.S., often beginning before their first birthday. It can cause significant discomfort due to symptoms like dryness, redness, and itching on the cheeks, scalp, arms, and legs.

Baby Eczema - What It Is and How to Treat It

What Causes Baby Eczema?

Eczema is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Babies with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies are more prone. Their skin barrier is weaker, allowing moisture to escape and irritants to enter more easily. Common eczema triggers include:

  • Dry air or weather
  • Harsh soaps and detergents
  • Allergens (like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites)
  • Certain fabrics (like wool)
  • Heat and sweat

How to Treat Baby Eczema

There’s no permanent cure, but baby eczema is manageable with a gentle, consistent skincare routine. The goal is to restore the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and prevent flare-ups.

1. Daily Moisturizing

Moisturizing is the cornerstone of eczema care. Apply fragrance-free moisturizers within 3 minutes after a bath to lock in hydration. Choose products labeled hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and pediatrician or dermatologist tested.

Recommended Products:

  • Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment
    Seals in moisture and protects against irritants. Ideal for very dry patches.
    aquaphorus.com
  • Eucerin Baby Eczema Relief Body Cream
    Contains colloidal oatmeal and ceramides to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier.
    eucerinus.com
  • Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream
    Developed with pediatric dermatologists. Uses colloidal oatmeal and glycerin for relief.
    aveeno.com

2. Gentle Bathing

Use lukewarm water and limit baths to 10–15 minutes. Avoid harsh soaps. Instead, use a mild, soap-free cleanser or shampoo designed for sensitive skin.

Recommended Products:

  • Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo with Organic Calendula
    Tear-free, hypoallergenic, and safe for everyday use.
    cetaphil.com
  • California Baby Eczema Shampoo & Body Wash
    Uses plant-based ingredients and no added fragrance; certified by the National Eczema Association.
    californiababy.com

3. Targeted Treatment During Flare-Ups

In more severe cases, pediatricians may recommend:

  • Hydrocortisone 1% Cream (short-term use only)
    Helps calm inflammation. Only use under medical supervision on babies.
  • Prescription topical steroids or calcineurin inhibitors
    For moderate to severe eczema not responding to OTC treatments.
  • Wet wrap therapy
    Wraps dampened with warm water and layered with dry fabric help hydrate skin and improve medication absorption.

4. Manage Triggers

Track and eliminate potential triggers such as:

  • Switching to fragrance-free detergents
  • Dressing baby in breathable cotton clothes
  • Using a cool-mist humidifier in dry environments

When to See a Doctor

Consult a pediatrician or dermatologist if:

  • The rash is widespread, infected, or oozing
  • It interferes with sleep or feeding
  • OTC treatments are not working

Final Thoughts

Baby eczema can be tough to manage, but with the right approach—daily moisturizing, gentle bathing, and trigger management—most babies see improvement. Always consult your child’s doctor before starting any new treatments, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

Helpful Resources

Derek Harnett