Atopic Dermatitis in Infants

Atopic dermatitis, which has become more common in recent years, can generally be seen in children under 7 years of age. Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema; It occurs with symptoms of dryness, redness and itching. Itching symptoms caused by dry skin can negatively affect the baby's quality of life. With the right care, atopic babies can improve during adolescence. Depending on what causes atopic dermatitis in babies, let's examine it together;

-Bacteria ratios on the skin of healthy babies and babies with atopic skin are not the same. Bacterial diversity is not the same in babies with normal and cesarean delivery. A lack of bacterial diversity can cause eczema (atopic dermatitis). Atopic dermatitis may be more common in babies born by cesarean section.

-Atopic dermatitis is a genetic condition. Most children with eczema in their family members have eczema symptoms.

-Atopic dermatitis may increase in places where industrialization is high. This is because the increased allergens with industrialization penetrate the skin and cause damage to the skin barrier. As a result of damage to the skin barrier, eczema symptoms can be seen on the skin.

-Not hydrating the skin enough or using the right skin products can damage the skin barrier and lead to atopic dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis, which is observed with symptoms of dryness, redness and itching on your baby's skin, can be seen about three months after birth. Itching occurs with sensitivity caused by dryness, especially in skin folds and facial lines. These episodes of itching make babies restless and can also cause sleep disturbances. Babies with atopic dermatitis can also cause allergies and asthma to certain foods. Things to consider if your baby has atopic dermatitis;

-The temperature of the water you use while taking a bath is very important. Take care to wash your baby with lukewarm water as much as possible. Do not take the bath time too long. Bath products for children with atopic dermatitis should be chosen carefully. Hypoallergenic cleaners should be used for the health of your baby.

-Gently dry your baby's skin with a cotton towel after bathing. Make sure to wear clean and ironed clothes every day. You should wash your baby's clothes separately, do not use fabric softener and rinse extra.

-You need to moisturize your baby's skin every day. In this way, you reduce the water loss of the skin and help strengthen the skin barrier. Humidifiers should also be hypoallergenic and suitable for newborn use.

-It is very difficult to avoid itching attacks that can disrupt your baby's quality of life and may come during sleep, but certain precautions can still be taken. Avoid dressing wool and synthetic fabrics for babies with atopic dermatitis. Cotton fabrics should be your first choice. You can wear cotton gloves on your hands so that your skin is not damaged during itching.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you see the symptoms of eczema (atopic dermatitis) in your baby, you should definitely do allergy tests and consult a specialist doctor. Definitely someone else's cream, medicine, etc. Do not use things on your baby without your doctor's approval.

We wish you healthy days…