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Eczema in babies: a guide for parents

How to care for your baby’s eczema day to day, treat flares quickly and safely, and when to get help.

Written and medically reviewed by Dr Ting Seng Tang, Consultant Dermatologist (GMC 7020502)

Eczema is very common in babies and often starts in the first months of life, usually on the cheeks, scalp and body. It can be distressing to see your baby itchy and uncomfortable, but with a clear routine most babies’ eczema can be well controlled, and many children grow out of it.

Everyday care

  • Use a fragrance-free emollient (moisturiser) generously several times a day, even when the skin looks clear. Smooth it on in the direction of hair growth rather than rubbing.
  • Use the emollient or a soap substitute instead of soap, bubble bath and baby wash.
  • Keep baths short and lukewarm, pat the skin dry and apply emollient straight afterwards.
  • Dress your baby in soft, breathable cotton and avoid overheating at night.
  • Keep nails short; scratch mitts or sleepsuits with fold-over cuffs can help at night.

Treating flares

When the skin becomes red, rough and itchy, a short course of an anti-inflammatory cream, usually a mild topical steroid, is the most effective treatment. Used as directed, these creams are safe for babies. Treat the flare promptly until the skin has settled, then step back down to emollients alone.

Apply the treatment cream thinly to the affected areas, and the emollient separately, ideally around 20–30 minutes apart.

What about allergies?

Most baby eczema is not caused by food allergy, and cutting out foods without medical advice can affect your baby’s nutrition. Food allergy is more likely if eczema is severe and started very early, or if your baby reacts soon after eating a particular food. Discuss this with your doctor before changing your baby’s diet.

When to get help

  • Get same-day medical advice if the eczema suddenly becomes painful, weepy or crusted with punched-out sores, or your baby has a fever or seems unwell: this can be a sign of infection such as eczema herpeticum.
  • See your GP or a dermatologist if the eczema is not controlled with emollients and short courses of mild treatment, or is affecting your baby’s sleep and feeding.

Related

This page is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice.