Eczema in babies and young children
Eczema is the most common chronic skin disease in children, sometimes starting as early as infancy. If one or both parents have a history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever, your little one is more likely to develop eczema.
About 6 out of 10 people with eczema will see symptoms before their 1st birthday.
Could that rash be eczema?
Here are some of the ways eczema can look different in infants, babies, and toddlers.
INFANTS (3-6 MONTHS)
- You’ll most likely see eczema on the face, cheeks, chin, forehead, and scalp, but it is generally not as common in the diaper area
- Features red or discolored skin with “weepy-looking” sores
BABIES (6-12 MONTHS)
- At 6 months, you may still see eczema on your baby’s face and neck
- Eczema commonly shows up on elbows and knees––the places that are easy to rub or irritate as babies crawl
TODDLERS (AGES 2-5 YEARS)
- You’re likely to notice eczema in the creases of their elbows and knees, or on their wrists and hands
- You might also see eczema near your little one’s mouth or eyelids
Remember, you should always talk to your doctor if you notice any eczema symptoms on your baby.
Tips to help manage your baby’s eczema
- Use clothing and shade to protect your child’s skin from the sun, especially if under 6 months
- Wash stuffed animals often––soft toys attract dust, which can trigger eczema
- Right after bath time, use a fragrance-free moisturizer
- Keep in mind that ointments are good barriers that help retain moisture in your skin
EUCRISA is approved to treat mild-to-moderate eczema in babies ages 3 months and up
