When infants experience atopic dermatitis it can affect each baby differently depending on their age and how severe their symptoms are. If they show signs of atopic dermatitis in infancy it generally manifest itself between the ages of six to twelve weeks. It first appears on the chin and cheeks as a patchy rash and if not handled properly can become inflamed and oozy. Since most over the counter and prescription medications are not recommended for children under two years, infant cases of atopic dermatitis can be difficult to treat.

Since infants under two have have fewer treatment options they have a higher risk of infection. Keeping their nails clipped and using mittens at night will help cut down on infections cause by scratching. When infants become mobile and start to crawl the rash may spread to exposed areas that rub as they move such as the outer parts of the arms and legs. They can be restless and irritable due to the itching that atopic dermatitis causes.

Since treatments for infants are limited first thing parents should do it try to avoid outbreaks as much as possible. This is done through carefully observing what causes an outbreak since each child is different. Once the triggers are found the can be avoided.

Laundry detergent is a major irritant so be sure to wash all clothing in a soap free of dyes and fragrances such as Dreft. It is important to remember to also wash their bedding and your clothes in it as well. Any material in your home that may come in contact with the infants skin should be washed in the hypoallergenic detergent.

How the infant is dressed has a great affect on outbreaks as well. Avoid dressing the infant, or anyone else they may come in contact with, in wool or any other harsh material. These material can rub against already irritated skin and cause serious inflammation. Also it is best to avoid over dressing the infant or putting to many blankets on them because excessive sweating can increase irritation in the skin as well.

Regardless of the cause of the outbreak, proper skin care is vital for control inf infant atopic dermatitis. Proper skin care begins with the frequency of bathing. Infants should only be given a full bath every other day. On the off days it is recommended that they be given a sponge bath with a cleanser designed for sensitive skin such as Cetaphil. The infants skin is simply cleaned with a wash cloth that contains the cleanser and the another that does not to rinse. However a bath is given it is vital to moisturize the skin with a lotion for sensitive skin which Cetaphil also produces and Eucerin is widely used too.

Prescription creams are not recommended for infants under two but may be prescribed in sever cases. Otherwise, to help combat itching 0.5% hydrocortisone cream can be used but a dermatologist and/or pediatrician should be consulted before using any over the counter medication on an infants atopic dermatitis. For diaper areas regular diaper rash cream can be helpful.

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Related posts:

1. Atopic Dermatitis Infants
2. Atopic Dermatitis Skin Care

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