Eczema in the baby
Eczema in babies often occurs in the form of diaper dermatitis. The friction of the diaper against the skin and too much moisture promotes the inflammation of the skin. Since the skin barrier is disrupted as a result, pathogens such as yeast fungi can then easily attach themselves to the skin and further aggravate the condition.
The most important and simplest measure to prevent and treat napkin dermatitis is to change the diaper frequently so that no moist environment can develop. Zinc pastes help to dry out the weeping eczema. If there is also a fungal infection, it can be treated with an antifungal ointment (for example with nystatin).
Another type of eczema that may affect the baby’s entire body is atopic eczema. It often starts in the face as a brownish crust on a red background (so-called milk crust) and then spreads to the rest of the body over time. Especially the extensor sides of the extremities (elbows, knees) are affected.
Atopic eczema looks very different. From reddening to blisters, crusts, weeping erosions, knots to dandruff, everything is possible. The treatment of atopic dermatitis is as varied as its appearance.
A refattening of the skin and fighting the inflammation with steroid creams are part of the basic therapy. Breastfeeding has a positive effect on the baby’s eczema. Allergies are less active due to breast milk.
Otherwise, it can be beneficial to feed hypoallergenic food.Avoiding pets and not smoking in the child’s immediate environment can also help to restore the skin to its original state. Seborrheic eczema can affect both babies and adults and typically disappears in babies after the third month of life. It is caused by a malfunction of the sebaceous glands, which then rest until puberty.
Characteristic are yellowish, greasy crusts on hairy parts of the body. The crusts can be soaked overnight with olive oil and are then easily removed. Sometimes a light steroid cream can also help.
