Every new parent knows that the arrival of a newborn into their home entails massive changes. For example, the house would have to be baby-proofed, with every corner padded and every socket sealed. It’s also important to keep the environment calm, without loud noises or bright lights that could bother their baby’s sensitive eyes and ears.
Likewise, your baby’s skin is equally sensitive and needs special care. In fact, during this time, newborns are susceptible to conditions like eczema. As a new parent, it can be really stressful to see your little one uncomfortable. But don’t worry – while it might seem scary at first, eczema is manageable. It might take some trial and error, but together, you can figure out what works best for your baby.
What is Eczema?
The primary symptoms of eczema include dry, itchy skin, redness, and inflammation. Sometimes, the affected skin may become cracked and scaly or develop small, fluid-filled blisters. There is much debate about the exact cause of this disease, but the common understanding is that it may be genetic or triggered by the environment. For example, certain soaps, detergents, fabrics or food items may cause these symptoms to appear in your baby. Irrespective of its severity, it can cause discomfort and irritation. The inability to help the baby in spite of their best intention can overwhelm parents and lead to a desperate search for help. The good news is that plant-derived, toxin-free products are available in the market to help manage the situation.
What type of products can help deal With Eczema?
The number one rule in managing eczema in newborns is to keep their skin moisturised and hydrated. Baby lotions and moisturisers may help, especially those containing nourishing ingredients with hydration effects. Take, for example, Pentavitin. This extract, derived from corn kernels, closely mimics the skin’s own moisturising properties. Thus, it has the potential to provide instant hydration and prevent the skin from drying out.
Saffron may also help reduce redness and make the skin brighter and smoother. Natural butters nourish and protect the baby’s delicate skin. For example, ghee or clarified butter is rich in fatty acids and Vitamins A and E help maintain the skin’s moisture balance. Shea butter offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, while mango butter is known for its hydrating ability. Moreover, natural oils derived from almonds, hemp seeds, and pomegranate seeds can aid in combating skin issues.
What more can be done to help your baby?
In addition to using products comprising the mentioned ingredients, you can help your baby by identifying the triggers of their eczema and eliminating them. Exclusive breastfeeding till six months of age can significantly reduce the appearance of eczema in babies with high risk. Consuming probiotics during the later stages of pregnancy can also help strengthen the child’s immune system and prevent disease development.
It is also advised to remove all chemical-containing products such as soaps and shampoos from your baby’s hygiene routine. Replace them with products that are safer and toxin free. After a bath, pat dry your baby using a soft cloth to prevent water getting trapped in the skin folds. Make sure that you don’t rub or irritate the skin.
You can also make your child wear mittens and clip their nails carefully, so that they don’t hurt themselves while scratching. If the baby gets too uncomfortable, consult a professional and get help.
Eczema can be frustrating for both- babies and their parents. And it’s completely normal to feel worried when you see your child experiencing such discomfort. However, with a little help and research, you can find the right products made of natural ingredients to ease their symptoms and manage the condition better. It is also a good idea to read the product label and check for certifications from international bodies like EWG and Ecocert before making a purchase decision. Moreover, available in the market are solutions that are cellularly proven, which means that the products are tested at the cellular level for safety and efficacy. So, with patience, research, and the right products, moms can help their children navigate through the frustrations of eczema and provide them with the comfort and care they deserve.
(The author, Taru Mayur, is the Co founder of AreoVeda.)
