Bathtime should be a calming, joyful part of the day, but for babies with eczema-prone skin, it can be challenging. Cleansing formulas, water temperature and long baths can set off skin sensitivity. The good news? Our gentle guide can help make bathtime a soothing, bonding experience for you and your little one.
Eczema in children is more common than you think and affects one in five infants, developing in the first year of life1. The hallmarks of eczema are dry, itchy and red skin on the face, tummy, arms and legs. Infantile eczema is common, with more than half of sufferers experiencing eczema signs within the first 12 months of life2. Most children will outgrow the condition, though a small percentage can experience severe symptoms into adulthood2.
Babies have a skin barrier that is still developing, with less of the skin’s natural moisture protection. A baby's delicate skin can dry out faster, and can make it easier for unwanted irritants to get in. Once irritants get through, a baby's skin can become inflamed and eczema symptoms of rough and flaky skin may appear.
Triggers include extreme temperature, synthetic fabrics, allergens like dust and pollen, and irritants such as soap and detergent2. Food allergies can also be an underlying cause, but more likely in severe eczema cases3.
Skip a bath
Bathing too much can dry out delicate and eczema-prone skin, so try ‘spot cleaning’ their face, hands, neck folds and nappy area daily with a damp cloth and QV Baby Gentle Wash. Be sure to wipe off any residual product.
Keep bathtime short
Bath time can be a wonderful part of the bedtime routine, signalling it’s time to wind down. If a bath is part of your daily routine, keep it short – about 5 to 10 minutes is ideal.
Warm, not hot water
Bathe your baby in lukewarm water, about 37°C to 38°C5 – hot water can dehydrate skin and weaken the skin barrier.
Bubbles or no bubbles?
While bubbles make bathtime exciting, it’s best to skip them for babies and those with eczema-prone or sensitive skin. Ingredients that create bubbles may cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Bubble baths often contain fragrances and dyes designed for appealing scents and colours, but they’re not recommended for babies or toddlers with sensitive skin as they can easily irritate6.
TIP: Add a capful of QV Baby Bath Oil to lukewarm water, or use QV Baby Gentle Wash and a muslin cloth. Want more bathtime fun? Add bath toys.
Choose gentle, hydrating products free from common irritants as part of your baby’s daily eczema skincare routine to lock in moisture and protect against dryness. Establishing a consistent skincare routine will help with eczema and your baby's sensitive skin.
Bathing a baby with eczema or sensitive skin can feel daunting, but with these practical tips – like limiting bath time, skipping bubbles, and selecting fragrance-free, hydrating products – you can help protect your baby’s delicate skin and ease discomfort.
It’s best to consult your GP or dermatologist for tailored advice and treatment options if you are concerned about your baby’s dry, sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
