Dermatitis is eczema often related to other conditions such as asthma or hay fever as these are also allergies. Atopic eczema is thought to be as a result of genetic and external factors and varies in its severity and the way it presents itself on your baby’s skin. It also varies in duration, with atopic dermatitis being of a more chronic nature than contact dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is due more to genetics and may last your child into their adolescent years, contact dermatitis is a lot more temporary and caused by contact with an irritant.
What are the symptoms of baby dermatitis?
Both types of eczema are triggered by substances such as dust, pet hair, aggravating cheap fabrics, cigarette smoke, moisture and some detergents and soaps. Both types of dermatitis present themselves as angry red skin, perhaps flared up and swollen, or as dry, cracked, flakey skin. It usually appears first on your baby’s chubby cheeks, scalp and behind their ears, if left untreated will move to more uncomfortable areas like elbow and knee creases and the diaper area. As the condition increases in severity, small red pimples may arise on your little one’s skin, seep with fluid adding to your little one’s discomfort.
Sixty five percent of sufferers of atopic dermatitis are symptom-free by sixteen years of age.
How to help prevent toddler dermatitis from worsening:
If your youngster is suffering from eczema, you can do multiple things to relieve symptoms, like reduce your baby’s exposure to moisture by frequently patting away any saliva, keeping baths tepid and no longer than ten minutes in duration, making sure not to add any bubble bath and only use minimal amounts of fragrance-free, mild soap. Post- bathing, apply a gentle moisturizer whilst your little one’s skin is still damp and then again a bit later on. Cut your baby’s nails short so they can’t scratch and aggravate their skin further. Use detergents designed for sensitive skin and reduce perspiration by keeping your baby cool, and be sure to dress them in gentle breathable fabrics and blankets, avoiding clothing with irritating labels.
Always consult your baby’s doctor to ensure the right treatment and prevention are observed.
