What are the common triggers of Eczema in infants?

Have you noticed red, itchy patches on your baby's skin? You're not alone. L'eczema in infants is a common but often confusing problem for parents. In this article, we explore in depth the causes of eczema in babies, how to recognize the symptoms and best practices for managing and preventing this skin condition.

What is baby eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammation of the skin, manifested by red, itchy patches and dry skin. In infants, these symptoms often appear on the cheeks, chin and forehead, and sometimes on the scalp, arms and legs.

Recognizing Eczema Symptoms

Common symptoms Symptoms ofbaby eczema include intensely itchy, red, rough, scaly patches. These patches often appear on the cheeks, chin, neck, wrists and elbows. As the child grows, eczema may become more localized on the arms and legs.

Itch-scratch cycle One of the most distressing aspects of eczema is the itch-scratch cycle. The more the baby scratches, the more irritated the skin becomes, which makes the itching worse and can lead to secondary infections. It's a vicious circle that it's crucial to break to relieve the child.

Triggers for Eczema in Babies

Heredity and genetic predisposition :One of the main causes of eczema in babies is heredity. Family history plays a crucial role. If one or both parents have suffered from eczema, asthma or hay fever, there is an increased likelihood that the baby will develop eczema. Research shows that this genetic transmission strongly influences predisposition to eczema.

Skin barrier deficiency :Babies with atopic dermatitis often have a weakened skin barrier. The skin does not produce enough lipids (fats) to protect itself effectively. This deficiency makes the skin more vulnerable to allergens and irritants, resulting in drought excessive itching and scaling.

Domestic Irritants : Many common household products, such as detergents, bubble baths, disinfectants and certain rough fabrics (like wool), can irritate babies' sensitive skin and trigger eczema flare-ups. We recommend using gentle, hypoallergenic products.

Extreme Temperatures and Humidity : Very high or very low temperatures, as well as fluctuations in humidity, can trigger eczema flare-ups. For example, dry air in winter or exposure to high heat in summer can dry out the skin and trigger symptoms.

Allergens The presence of contaminants such as dust mites, animal dander, pollen and mold can cause itching and inflammation. We recommend keeping the environment clean, vacuuming regularly and reducing the amount of lint and plush toys that trap dust.

Food and Food Allergies Although rare in infants, some food allergies can trigger or aggravate eczema. The foods most often involved are milk, eggs, nuts, seeds and wheat. A child with severe eczema should be evaluated for potential food allergies.

Stress Stress: it's not a direct cause of eczema, but it can make symptoms worse. Tension, frustration or problems at daycare can intensify itching. It's important to monitor your child's behavior and take steps to minimize stress.

How to Treat Eczema in Babies

Daily Care A daily skin care routine is essential for managing eczema. This includes regular baths with lukewarm water and the use of gentle, non-drying cleansers. It's important to gently pat the skin dry and apply a cream. moisturizing within three minutes of bathing to lock in moisture.

Drug treatmentsIn the event of severe flare-ups, it may be necessary to use cortisone creams or prescription antihistamines. These treatments must be prescribed by a healthcare professional after a thorough assessment of the child's symptoms.

Sleep Environment To improve your child's night-time comfort, maintain a cool room temperature and avoid overloading him with blankets. Soft, seamless cotton pyjamas can help reduce chafing and irritation.

Understanding the causes of eczema in babies and applying good care practices can significantly improve your child's quality of life. While there is no definitive cure, proactive management and proper daily care can help control symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. For an accurate diagnosis and personalized advice, always consult a healthcare professional.