If you've noticed your baby has dry, irritated skin, they might have eczema - a chronic itchy skin condition that most often starts in infancy, but can appear in later life for the first time.
Surprisingly common, eczema affects one in five Irish children and one in ten adults. The exact causes aren’t known, however, an inherited (genetic) predisposition to have a weakened skin barrier, as well as altered inflammatory and allergy responses are thought to be factors that impact development of the condition.
Eczema is a disruption of the skin’s barrier that leads to dry, itchy and inflamed or irritated skin. Atopic (or allergic) eczema is the most common type and is unfortunately a chronic inflammatory skin condition. The biggest issue is that the skin barrier function is impaired or weakened. The main function of the skin is to prevent water loss & protect against allergens and irritants. Eczema prone skin is therefore vulnerable and prone to infections as well.
New parents are understandably anxious when it comes to caring for their baby’s newborn skin. To help, we have outlined some tips to guide you through, because when we are thinking about caring for eczema prone skin we want to do everything we can to repair, protect and care for the skin’s own barrier. Using products that are hydrating, gentle and effective during your daily routine can help maintain your skin barrier function. The main aim of creating a suitable daily routine is to hydrate and nourish the skins barrier.
Emollients are an essential part of daily care and should be used regularly and liberally. Soap substitutes should also be used, to avoid any irritation from fragrances or harsh ingredients that may dry out the skin. We would advise if you have any medical concerns to contact a medical professional.
- Emollients, emollients, emollients. They really are the mainstay of management of dry, itchy skin and eczema prone skin. They work to trap the moisture in the skin and repair the skin barrier and re-balance the skin barrier function.
- When using emollients remember to apply in the direction of the hair so downwards and outwards.
- You need to find the right emollient for you. There are tonnes on the market but find one that suits you and fits in with your busy schedule. One of my highly recommended is La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M moisturising body lotion. The most important thing is committing to building this skincare routine into your every-day rituals, not making it a chore. Once you find the emollient that works for you, this becomes a lot easier!
- Although hydration is key in the managing dry skin, water can be very drying and is a common cause of itchy skin, so keep bath times to a minimum and avoid water that is too hot as this will draw hydration/moisture from the skin.
- When you do bathe kids (or adults) use soap substitutes, as traditional soap can dry out the sensitive skin - one of my favourites is La Roche-Posay Lipikar Huile AP+ a lipid replenishing cleansing oil.
- After bathing, pat the skin dry, never rub, use an emollient like the Lipikar AP+M moisturising body lotion. This can reduce the frequency of dry skin flare-ups and helps to rebalance the skin microbiome. It contains nourishing ingredients such as glycerin, as well as niacinamide. You should apply moisturiser within 3-5 minutes after the shower.
- If you suspect a child or member of your family is suffering with eczema prone skin we would advise to always seek advice form a medical professional, GP or Dermatologist.
Dr. Laura is a GP and Clinical Director of Dr. Laura clinic. Laura believes in optimal skin health for women at all stages of their lives, using a tailored combination of the right skincare and treatments. Dr Laura’s diverse background lends itself to her interests in health education, instagram and aesthetics. She has previously received a honours Bachelor of Commerce Degree from the National University of Ireland, Galway and also a honours Masters of Fashion Science from Glasgow Caledonian University.
For more information follow Dr. Laura on Instagram @drlauragp
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La Roche-Posay’s Lipikar and Cicaplast range is suitable for even the most delicate skin, designed to hydrate and soothe dryness and help repair the skin barrier. Its range of emollients is 100% hypoallergenic, ultra-gentle, and is also suitable for use on dry, eczema-prone skin.
La Roche-Posay is recommended by the Dermatologists worldwide.
Available from McCabes Pharmacy
