By a pharmacist and full-time mom of three
I still remember the night I cradled my firstborn against my chest, gently patting her back as she struggled to sleep through the constant itch. Her tiny fingers would dig into her skin and scratch until she bled, and it left me feeling completely helpless.
As a pharmacist, I’d filled countless prescriptions for hydrocortisone creams and antihistamines. But when it was my own baby, I didn’t want to reach for the steroid creams right away. I wanted something gentler, safer, and natural—something I could feel good about knowing I would use it every day on her sensitive skin.
So I did what moms do: I researched, experimented, and consulted both dermatologists and traditional remedies. And I’m here to share what really works—and what doesn’t.
First, What Is Baby Eczema?
Baby eczema (aka atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition that causes red, dry, itchy patches, often showing up on the cheeks, scalp, or behind the knees and elbows. It’s not contagious, but it is uncomfortable—and unfortunately, very common.
Up to 20% of babies may develop eczema in their first year. The good news? Most cases can be managed naturally, with the right care and consistency.
What a Pharmacist Knows (That TikTok Might Not Tell You)
Before we dive into the natural remedies, let’s debunk a few viral myths I’ve seen floating around social media:
❌ Myth 1: “Natural Oils like Olive Oil are Always Safe for Eczema”
A 2013 study published in Pediatric Dermatology found that topical application of olive oil compromised the skin barrier in healthy adults and suggested caution regarding its use on infants or those with skin conditions like eczema. For babies with eczema, this can make flare-ups worse.
✔️ Instead: Choose colloidal oatmeal, a dermatologist-recommended ingredient proven to calm irritation, reduce itch, and support the skin’s natural barrier. Unlike some oils, colloidal oatmeal hydrates without disrupting the skin, making it a safer and more effective choice for sensitive little ones.
❌ Myth 2: “Just stop bathing your baby so much.”
While over-bathing can dry out skin, avoiding baths entirely isn’t the answer either. Proper bathing helps remove allergens, sweat, and bacteria that contribute to flare-ups.
✔️ Pharmacist tip: Give lukewarm baths (not hot!), limit them to 10 minutes, and apply moisturizer immediately after patting skin dry—what we call the “soak and seal” method in dermatology.
My Favorite Natural Remedies (That Are Backed by Science)
🌱 1. Colloidal Oatmeal Cream
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This miracle ingredient is FDA-recognized as a skin protectant.
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It reduces itching and inflammation by forming a soothing barrier.
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Look for fragrance-free formulas with oat extract as the main active ingredient.
🌿 2. Kawakawa Leaf Extract
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Used traditionally by Māori in New Zealand, kawakawa has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
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Studies have shown it may help with eczema and dermatitis symptoms when used in creams or balms.
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It’s gentle and safe for babies over 3 months.
💧 3. Shea Butter + Ceramides
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Shea butter is rich in fatty acids and helps seal in moisture.
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Ceramides (which occur naturally in our skin) are critical in repairing the damaged skin barrier—think of them like mortar between skin cells.
Daily Baby Eczema Routine (What I Do as a Mom)
Morning:
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Quick lukewarm sponge bath or gentle cleanser
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Pat dry & apply moisturizer within 2 minutes
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Dress in soft, breathable fabrics (avoid wool or polyester blends)
Midday (if needed):
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Spot treat any flare-ups with a natural balm
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Keep baby’s nails trimmed or use mittens to prevent scratching
Evening:
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Oatmeal bath or water-only soak
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Apply rich emollient + barrier cream
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Run a humidifier in the nursery overnight
From One Mama to Another
Baby eczema is a journey, not a one-time fix. What works for one baby might not work for another. But by focusing on natural, dermatologist-backed routines, you can soothe your little one’s skin without harsh chemicals—and get those sweet, itch-free snuggles back.
Don’t be discouraged. You’re doing amazing. And if you ever need support, remember: this mama has been there, too.