My infant has eczema. how do I treat it?

What the evidence says

The base of treatment is regular moisturizing. The Canadian Paediatric Society advises daily warm (not hot) baths, patting skin dry rather than rubbing, and applying an unscented, thicker moisturizer right after bathing to lock in moisture. CMAJ's Canadian practice guideline notes that any type of emollient (lotion, cream, gel or ointment) works when used twice daily or as needed, and that adding oils or emollients directly to bath water does not give extra benefit beyond applying moisturizer straight to the skin.

For active flare-ups (red, itchy, inflamed patches), a topical corticosteroid is typically added on top of moisturizing. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes infants generally need a much lower-potency steroid than older children, and the face and skin folds need the gentlest strength since skin there absorbs more. Steroids are usually applied once daily during a flare until the skin clears, then stopped or used only occasionally to prevent relapse, guided by your doctor.

Routine antibiotics are not recommended just because the skin looks colonized with bacteria; Canadian guidance notes oral antibiotics are only needed if there are signs of a spreading infection like fever. Avoiding known triggers (harsh soaps, scented products, overheating, wool fabrics) also helps. See a doctor or pediatrician if the eczema isn't improving with regular moisturizing and steroid use, if it looks infected (oozing, crusting, spreading redness, fever), or if it's severe enough to disrupt sleep or daily life.

Emerging treatments and referral to a specialist may be appropriate for more severe or persistent cases.