Eczema in Babies – Best Baby Eczema Cream Singapore
While babies’ super soft skin is something to envy, it also opens them up to a variety of problems. One of the most common skin issues infants face is eczema.
This unsightly, itchy condition can make life difficult for babies and parents alike. Babies scratch their faces and cry out of discomfort, and you look on wishing you could help them get some relief. We’re here to help you learn more about eczema in babies and provide some information about how you can deal with this common issue. We’ll also weigh in on the best baby eczema cream in Singapore.
What is Eczema?
People use the term eczema to refer to itchy, red skin. This condition isn’t contagious, but it can cause both you and your little one a lot of stress.
Eczema covers two main conditions: atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis.
- Atopic dermatitis is a genetically inherited condition that results in red, itchy skin.
- Contact dermatitis has similar symptoms to atopic dermatitis, but it appears when your baby’s skin touches an irritating substance.
While you may be alarmed when you see your baby’s face turn red and witness them in discomfort, know that you’re not alone. Dermatologists estimate that up to 20 percent of infants experience eczema.
What Does Eczema Look Like?
Eczema appears as dry, itchy, flaky, red skin. Doesn’t sound like fun, does it?
While these symptoms can show up in children of all ages, the exact appearance differs depending on a child’s age. The experts at the National Eczema Association say you can look for these symptoms in your little one.
0 to 6 months: red and bumpy cheeks, chin, and forehead
0 to 12 months: red, itchy patches appear on your baby’s elbows and knees as they start to crawl
12 to 36 months: eczema is more likely to become dry and thick and appear in places such as their hands, eyelids, and mouth creases
What Causes Eczema in Babies?
Eczema may be caused by the environment, genetics, or a combination of both of these factors.
Some of the most common triggers of eczema include:
- Scented laundry detergent, shampoo, and soap
- Dry skin
- Hot environments and hot baths
- Pollen, pet dander, and other allergens
While all of these may cause an eczema flare-up, you’ll need to do due diligence to see what triggers your little one’s eczema. Once you figure out what causes their flare-ups, you can do your best to avoid the trigger.
How Can I Prevent Eczema in My Baby?
Your baby may come down with eczema, no matter how hard you try to prevent it. However, following certain measures can help prevent eczema or lessen the severity of it.
Be Mindful of Bathtime
While bathtime should be fun, bathing your infant the wrong way can lead to red, itchy skin. Pediatricians recommend bathing your little one in warm (not hot) water. Hot water can quickly dry out your baby’s skin and lead to flakes and itch.
After you remove your baby from the bathwater, make sure you get them nice and dry. Once they’re dry, rub their skin with a natural, moisturizing cream. Check out our baby lotion and cream reviews to see what products other parents love.
Avoid Irritating Substances
One of the most common causes of eczema in babies is irritating substances. The good news is that these items are generally easy to avoid, as long as you’re aware of what you’re looking for.
Some of the most common items that contain irritants include clothing, lotions, blankets, shampoos, and diapers. Stuffed animals, carpets, and laundry detergents can also act as irritants.
If you’re looking to avoid irritants, look for items that are organic or natural. Organic baby clothes are one of the best options to keep your little one’s skin protected.
Check Your Feeding Practices
Your baby’s diet can also impact the likelihood they will develop eczema. If you are using baby formula, avoid switching brands once you find one your baby likes.
If you’re breastfeeding, be aware that what you eat can impact your baby’s health. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that mothers should avoid peanuts and tree nuts to reduce their baby’s risk of developing atopic dermatitis. If you want to be extra careful, consider giving up eggs, fish, and cow’s milk while you’re breastfeeding.
How Can I Treat My Baby’s Eczema?
If you’ve done your best to prevent eczema but it’s still an issue, don’t give up hope just yet. While you can’t cure this skin issue, you can take steps to mask the symptoms and lessen the severity of your baby’s outbreaks.
Since eczema is often caused by dry skin, help seal in moisture with a high-quality lotion. Make sure the lotion is free of any irritants that may make the eczema worse. Apply lotion twice a day to keep your infant’s skin moisturized.
Best Baby Eczema Cream in Singapore
Parents have weighed in on the best baby eczema cream in Singapore. Some of their favorite products include Aveeno Baby Soothing Relief Moisturizing Cream and California Baby Calendula Cream. To see other products that may help, check out eczema creams and wash reviews. And don’t forget to let us know what has worked for your baby’s skin!
If moisturizing isn’t helping with the symptoms, you may need to turn to over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. While short-term use of this cream is typically safe, you shouldn’t use it for more than a week at a time. If you have any concerns, don’t be afraid to contact your child’s pediatrician.
Should I Contact a Doctor About My Baby’s Eczema?
While eczema is often nothing more than a minor skin issue, it can get to the point where it warrants the advice of a medical professional.
If moisturizing and hydrocortisone cream aren’t leading to relief, it’s best to seek an expert opinion. You should also seek out a medical professional if your baby is scratching their eczema to the point it is oozing.
On the Path to Clear Skin
Now that you have a bit more information about baby eczema, you can start preventing and treating your little one’s skin. With some patience and careful observation, you can find what works for your baby.
