Itching in babies is fairly common because the skin of infants is thin, sensitive and prone to irritation. Itchy skin on babies can stem from a variety of causes, including eczema, irritation from soaps and fabrics, allergies to food or other substances, dry skin and insect bites. Checking out with your pediatrician to rule out any easily treated skin issues is a great first step. However, there are also “first aid” home remedies to soothe itching that are equally effective, regardless of the cause of the symptom.
- Bathe your baby in cool or lukewarm water and use a mild soap when necessary. Very warm water, soaps and shampoos all contribute to dry skin and make itching worse. Adding colloidal oatmeal to the bathwater may also help soothe her itching.
- Pat her skin dry or allow her to air dry. Rubbing your baby’s skin with a towel can increase irritation, dryness and itching.
- Apply a moisturizing lotion to your baby’s skin as soon as her skin is mostly dry after bathing, when she wakes in the morning and before bed at night. Babies with very dry skin or eczema may benefit from an oil-based ointment more than from a water-based moisturizer.
- Dress your baby in breathable, lightweight, smooth fabrics such as cotton or silk. Avoid wool and other scratchy fabrics, as these can significantly increase itching.
- Keep your baby cool and avoid rapid temperature changes. Placing cool compresses or chilled, damp washcloths directly onto itchy areas may also help.
- Cut your baby’s fingernails to prevent skin irritation and damage associated with scratching.
- Apply Oleia Topical Oil around the affected area. It helps remove the symptoms of itchiness, redness and swelling, fast. Oleia Oil deeply penetrates the skin and helps control rash and skin irritation.
Observe your baby’s skin every now and then. If home treatment of itchy skin is unsuccessful, speak with your pediatrician about an allergy evaluation for your baby. Dietary changes may be necessary, or you may need to begin using hypoallergenic soaps, detergents and other products. If your baby’s itching is severe, your pediatrician may recommend allergy testing to help identify the cause.
About The Author
Cathy spends part of her days wondering how to combine her 2 loves, writing and photography. The rest of her time she spends taking care of her two babies. Sheena, a Labrador retriever & Amanda, a Siberian husky. She’s been an OLEIA user since May.
