As 1 in 5 Irish children in Ireland suffer with eczema, La Roche Posay partnered with the Irish Skin Foundation to raise awareness of the chronic skin condition.

Usually, eczema appears in babies up to six months old and carries on until about five years of age before disappearing.

How can I tell if my baby has eczema? 

Babies frequently acquire rashes around their face, on their cheeks and chin areas, as well as at key joint points like elbows and knees. But don’t panic, it’s a common scenario and although it can look severe, it can be managed with the right care.

How can I care for my baby's eczema?

1. Keep moisturising

It is important to keep the skin nourished and moisturised. Apply your balm or emollient just after the bath or shower, when the skin absorbs the most.

2. Steer clear of allergens

If you know what type of eczema your baby is suffering from and what triggers it, keep away from the causes. Common culprits are scratchy wool clothing, strong or fragranced detergents and simply: dust.

3. Go fragrance free

Remember to check all skincare products to make sure they are fragrance-free. In fact, the fewer ingredients, the better.

4. Go for emollient

Adding an emollient oil to the bath can be soothing. It is also wise to shorten bath times - babies can bathed daily but keep them short, use a moistening bath additive and keep the water at a mild temperature, avoiding any extremes, be it too cold or too hot.

5. Encourage a good night’s sleep

Being tired lowers the body’s immune system, which can worsen eczema.

To help promote sleep and reduce itching, make sure the room is not too warm – 18 degrees is ideal for babies. Choose cotton clothing, remove irritating labels and adjust the layers according to how warm your child is.

La Roche Posay: Lipikar Range

Fragrance free and suitable for new-borns, the Lipikar range helps to repair the skin’s natural barrier, soothing and reducing dryness and discomfort immediately. It respects the skin’s microbiome and gives 48-hour hydration. This is particularly welcome, so you don’t have to reapply on a wriggling child more than once a day.

Pop into your local CarePlus Pharmacy and try the La Roche Posay Lipikar range.