My boyfriend’s brother recently had a newborn son and everytime we look at him, we can’t help but feel how incredibly adorable he is. Below is him at 1 month

The only problem is that he’s so young, and has already started getting baby acne – as well as what some skin inflammation that looks like eczema.

Managing dermatitis can be a problem for babies and small children.

Shampoo For Eczema (a site about eczema and recommended eczema products) says that skin inflammation usually shows up around 2-6 months, influencing around 20% of toddlers and junior kids. Luckily, it is treatable and the vast majority of the populace has the ability to exceed it.

The type of shampoo, lotion, and soap that you use is very critical at this point; it is important that these products are in their most natural form – with few chemicals, and preferably – all natural.

Toddler’s have young and undeveloped immune systems, which makes it important for them to stay away from products with lots of chemicals, as they can easily be absorbed into their sensitive bodies. For example, Vaseline is often a popular choice of moisturizer – but this product is not breathable and can even compound dermatitis – especially since it is the same substance used to make petrol.

Holistic Nutritionists offer a few tips in dealing with baby eczema
(also applicable to young children):

1. Avoid Topical Irritants

A newborn baby’s immune systems are very sensitive and can easily be irritated by perfumes, dyes, and chemicals in household products, laundry detergents, shampoo, soaps, and even certain clothing. Be sure to switch to all natural, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products in order to relieve eczema. The brand California Baby Shampoo and Bodywash Eczema Therapeutic Relief is a 100% all natural botanical cleanser that is free of chemicals, allergens, sulfates, and fragrance. The Super Sensitive Shampoo & Bodywash will also leave skin soft and hair shiny.

Diet is a huge part of triggering eczema. Holistic nutritionists state that the digestive system of a baby is not fully formed until 2 years old – so it is vital that only nutritious, and easy to digest foods are fed to babies. For example, feeding babies bread that contains gluten should be avoided until after 2 years old. It is shown that babies who are fed gluten and wheat earlier on in life are more likely to develop allergies and a lowered immune system. Read Dealing with Food Allergies in Babies and Children for more information.

3. Breastfeed (whenever possible) 

It is important to breastfeed your baby to reduce allergies, eczema and help to strengthen their immune system. If this is not possible, then ensure that you choose a formula that won’t aggravate their allergies or digestive system, such as the Babys Only Organic Toddler Formula. This contains all organic ingredients and nutrients that won’t irritate your baby’s delicate digestive system.

Gerber Good Start Protect PLUS Powder is another formula that contains probiotic cultures to increase antibodies and the immune system, as well as provide essential fatty acids to support the physical development of the brain and eye tissue.

4. Clothing

Choose clothing that is loose and breathable. Bedding and clothing should preferably be cotton, while wool and chemical fiber products should be avoided. Ensure that clothing, pillows, and bedding are changed frequently to remain clean. You can also help to limit their scratching by buying anti-scratch mittens, like the Sesame Street Infant Scratch Mittens or $3.99 4-Pack of Scratch Mittens to help your child reduce scratching.

Baby Dylan is wearing anti-scratch mittens here, and they help him a lot

5. Environment

Many holistic nutritionists support the idea that keeping your environment clean is very important: the room temperature should not be too high, otherwise it can aggravate eczema. It is also important to minimize allergens (such as pets and dogs). Keep your room well ventilated, do not smoke indoors, and avoid dust.

Follow these few tips…

and remember that making small changes will make a big difference!

For more information, visit Shampoo For Eczema’s, and check out the online store for recommended products for infants (and even adults) with eczema.

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