When a baby has eczema, and it is in a flare up, often the only treatment that provides relief is to use a cortisone cream. This can seem scary to parents, who don't want to do anything that could be detrimental in the long run. After all, cortisone contains steroids and has been found to thin the skin over the long haul. How can parents choose a baby eczema cream that would eliminate the need for cortisone?
First, remember that cortisone only needs to be used during times of intense break-outs, and then only sparingly. It should be stopped when the rash heals, which is usually fairly soon. Do not use cortisone creams again for at least a week, but do not forget to use other moisturizers frequently. The best treatment for baby eczema includes moisturizing the skin with baby cream several times a day even when the skin looks healthy. By keeping it moisturized, you can hopefully avoid a future severe flare-up.
If you should need a stronger medication, the over-the-counter cortisone preparations should be strong enough. Try using the 0.5% cream and see if it will do the job. If you need stronger medicine, you can contact your doctor for a prescription. Do follow the doctor's instructions carefully.
People have preconceived ideas about baby creams, but the best one to get is the one that does not irritate your baby's skin. That means that you may want to use something inexpensive or all-natural, but the cream that works might be something different. The best advice is to keep an open mind and use what works. Some natural ingredients to look for in creams are evening primrose oil, aloe vera, oatmeal, vitamin E oil, and cocoa butter. Lotions are usually not helpful for moisturizing baby eczema. A cream product stays on the skin longer and does a better job of protecting it and keeping in moisture.
Most authorities state that plain old petroleum jelly tends to be healing and moisturizing for baby eczema. Mineral oils are considered safe as well. One way to add an emollient to your baby's skin is to add a teaspoon or so of mineral oil to your child's bathwater. It will float on top, but some will stay on the baby when you take him out and dry him off gently. There are bath oils that do the same thing, but it is probably best to stay away from any that contain added scents or other possibly irritating chemicals.
