#asktheexpert treatment for atopic dermatitis

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Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) in a 3-Month-Old: Treatment & Care

Atopic dermatitis in infants is common and usually appears as red, dry, itchy patches on the cheeks, arms, legs, or scalp. Since your baby is only 3 months old, gentle and safe treatment is necessary.

1️⃣ Daily Skincare Routine (Most Important)

✅ Bathing:

Give short (5-10 min), lukewarm baths daily (not hot water). Use mild, fragrance-free baby cleansers (like Cetaphil, Aveeno, or Bioderma). Pat dry (don’t rub) and apply moisturizer immediately.

✅ Moisturizing:

Use thick fragrance-free emollients (e.g., Vaseline, CeraVe, Mustela, Aveeno, Eucerin). Apply at least 3-4 times a day, especially after bathing. Look for moisturizers containing ceramides to repair the skin barrier. 2️⃣ Avoid Triggers

🚫 Avoid scented soaps, shampoos, and detergents. Use mild, fragrance-free detergents.
🚫 Avoid overheating – keep your baby in soft cotton clothes.
🚫 Avoid scratching – keep nails short and use cotton mittens if needed.
🚫 Check for allergens – sometimes cow’s milk or formula intolerance can worsen eczema.

3️⃣ Treating Flare-Ups

🔹 If the skin is very red, inflamed, or itchy:

Apply breast milk (has healing properties). You can use coconut oil or virgin sunflower seed oil to reduce inflammation. If prescribed by a doctor, mild hydrocortisone 1% cream can be used for a short duration.

🔹 If there is infection (oozing, yellow crusts, swelling):

Your baby might need an antibiotic cream (prescribed by a doctor). 4️⃣ When to See a Doctor?

🚨 If eczema worsens despite home care
🚨 If there is excessive oozing, pus, or signs of infection
🚨 If the baby is very irritable, crying, or not feeding well

💙 With proper skincare and avoiding triggers, most babies improve over time. Let me know how severe your baby’s eczema is, and I can guide you further!