Baby Allergies-Need tips on caring for baby's eczema breakouts?

When Jordan was 6 wks old, he broke out into this measles-like rash all over his face. I was in TEARS!! He had red bumps that would turn in to patches that eventually linked together. The worst was when we went to my in-laws and his bumps suddenly started oozing a sticky yellow fluid.

I did research on it and here's what I learned:

• If there is history of Allergies or Asthma in the family (mostly from father's side) children will most likely inherit their allergies.
• Will usually out grow "MOST" of their allergies by 6mos to 1 year.
• THEIR SKIN IS NOT ABLE TO RETAIN MOISTURE-hence, the dry patchy skin that evolves into eczema.
• Will most likely breakout in areas where baby sweats the most (joints, back of the knee, elbows crease, neck and wrists)
• If left untreated, can develop into scars ( ..as it did for artist "SEAL" )

These are some of the common Allergens:

• Perfumes
• Scented lotions
• Scented toiletries
• Detergents
• Dyes
• Pet dander (Cats, dogs)
• Dust Mites
• Certain fabrics ( Polyester, Wool..)
• Pollen
• Saliva
• Sweat

AVOID:

• Extreme Changes in temperature (Heat)
• Humidity
• His skin to come in contact with any fabric that is not 100% Cotton ( Polyester, Wool)
• Bathing with scented soaps, body washes, scented hand washes (What's on you will make your baby break out-try avoid using all these yourself)
• Tight fitting clothing (tight socks, pants, oncies )

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Bathe your baby in luke warm water no more than 10 min once or twice a week
• Try using Aveeno Baby UNSCENTED wash AND Lotion (or baby products designed for sensitive skin)
• Try using KERI Oil in your baby's bath water and tap dry
• Recommend using A+D as a daily moisturizer and AFTER bath (must try to keep baby's skin moist or eczema will set in due to dry skin)
• Dress your baby with LOOSE 100% COTTON clothing
• Try to maintain his environment COOL & DRY
• Try to use only UNSCENTED baby wipes and A+D after every diaper change (take the opportunity to massage ointment all over his legs, arms and face)
• Wash your baby's clothes AND that of you and your ENTIRE FAMILY with DREFT detergent (mild detergent for babies)
• May want to have a designated 100% cotton"blankie" to use as a barrier between baby and other fabrics (or visitors wearing perfume)

Sound like a lot of work? It is... But, there is good news! Once you establish a routine of the above recommendations, you will see the rewarding difference in your baby's skin. My son Jordan's skin doesn't break out nearly as much as it used to. It usually only happens when family visits or when we are in an uncontrolled environment.

I hope this helps.. I understand your frustration and it took a lot of research and determination to be able to relief my baby's skin from the itchiness and breakouts. LET ME KNOW HOW IT WORKS OUT FOR YOU! Rest assured, it will get better..