42 | AUGUST 2019 | L&L
MIND THE GAPS
There are many different types of
eczema, but atopic eczema is the most
common in babies and children. “It can occur
from just a few weeks after birth, and is simply the
way your baby’s skin is structured,” explains Dr Sarah
El-Heis, a clinical lecturer in dermatology, with clinical
and research interests in childhood eczema. “Skin is
made up of several layers, and the protective barrier
layer in babies with eczema is not as good as it should
be. The skin struggles to retain water, leading to gaps
between skin cells, where bacteria or irritants are
able to pass through more easily.” That’s why
her skin is more likely to become red and
inflamed when exposed to substances
that can irritate or cause an
allergic reaction.MOISTURISE, AND
MOISTURISE SOME MORE!
The best way to keep those gaps
closed is to keep your baby’s skin
moisturised all the time. “Opt for the
moisturiser with the least ingredients, as
this means there’s less chance of anything
irritating her skin,” says Sarah. Include a
morning and bedtime moisturising massage
in her routine, use every nappy change
as a chance to reapply it, and add
a little oil-based emollient to
her bath water, too.It’s itchy and annoying, but these savvy
tips will help you keep your baby comfy.