First Aid & Emergencies

Eczema (Infants)

When to Call 911

1 out of 10 infants and children have eczema, a dry itchy rash that comes and goes. It's not a dangerous condition, but it can be itchy and uncomfortable for baby and frustrating for parents.

Call Doctor If:

• Your baby develops a new rash.
• The rash looks infected, appears redder, or has a yellow crust or ooze.
• Home eczema treatments aren't helping.

1. Bathe Your Child

• Use lukewarm water. Hot water can make eczema worse.
• Rinse your child's skin twice to remove soap residue.
• Keep baths short since prolonged contact with water can be irritating.

2. Moisturize

• Put a gentle moisturizer on your baby's skin as soon as your child is out of the bath. Reapply several times a day or with every diaper change.
• Do not use any medications or medicated creams unless a doctor recommends it.

3. Dress Your Child in Comfortable Clothing

• Light, cotton fabrics may be most comfortable. Wash clothes before wearing.
• Avoid heavy, tight, or scratchy material such as wool, nylon, or synthetic fibers.

4. Prevent Irritation

• Try to keep your child from scratching. Keeping fingernails short may help.
• Avoid any known allergens.
• Avoid irritants such as perfumed soaps and detergents.
• Use cold compresses to relieve the itch.
• Don't let your baby get too hot or sweaty. Either can make eczema worse.
• Never give a baby an antihistamine without talking to a pediatrician first.
• Ask your pediatrician about medications to relieve itching and whether food or environmental allergens could be triggering the eczema.