We recently shared a podcast episode covering practical tips for managing eczema in babies and toddlers, and it prompted an important and commonly asked question: why is eczema so prevalent in young children?

Eczema in infancy is a multifactorial condition influenced by immune development, genetics, environmental exposures, and early-life microbiome balance. While the exact presentation varies between children, understanding the underlying contributing factors can help guide supportive care.

Why Eczema is Common in Babies and Toddlers

During pregnancy, a mother’s immune system naturally adapts to support and protect the developing baby. One aspect of this adaptation involves a shift in T-helper cell activity, which helps reduce the likelihood of immune rejection of the fetus.

This temporary immune modulation is a normal physiological process.

In some cases, infants may be born with an immune system that is still adapting postnatally. Over time, this typically balances as the child’s immune system matures. However, in some children, this immune reactivity may persist and present as eczema (atopic dermatitis).

Eczema is also commonly associated with other atopic conditions such as:

• Asthma

• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)

• Sinus inflammation

These conditions are often grouped under what is known as the atopic tendency, where the immune system is more reactive to environmental or dietary triggers.

Can Eczema in Babies Be Prevented?

There is no single guaranteed method of prevention, however emerging research suggests that early immune and microbiome support may play a role in reducing risk or severity.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, some supportive strategies may include:

• A balanced, nutrient-dense diet

• Reducing intake of highly processed and inflammatory foods where appropriate

• Supporting gut health through clinician-guided probiotic use

• Ensuring adequate intake of essential nutrients for immune development

Certain probiotic strains have been studied for their potential role in supporting maternal and infant microbiome balance and immune regulation.

Nutrition for Breastfeeding Mothers

A breastfeeding mother’s diet can influence both her own inflammatory load and, indirectly, the infant’s environment.

A supportive dietary pattern generally focuses on reducing inflammatory triggers and increasing nutrient density.

Commonly recommended considerations include:

• Minimising refined sugar and ultra-processed foods

• Reducing or moderating dairy, gluten, caffeine, and alcohol where appropriate

• Increasing intake of:

  • Leafy green vegetables

  • Fresh fruit and vegetables

  • Healthy fats (e.g. fish oil sources)

  • Adequate hydration (filtered water)

• Supporting gut health with probiotics when clinically appropriate

Nutrition for Children with Eczema

For children already experiencing eczema symptoms, dietary patterns may influence inflammation and skin reactivity.

A general focus is placed on whole, minimally processed foods, including:

• Vegetables (especially leafy greens)

• Lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, and fish

• Fresh fruit (in age-appropriate portions)

• Healthy fats such as avocado and oily fish

• Adequate water intake

In some cases, families find it helpful to adopt these dietary principles together to support consistency and reduce exposure to inflammatory foods within the home environment.

Bathing Practices for Eczema-Prone Skin

Bathing routines can significantly influence skin barrier integrity and symptom severity in paediatric eczema.

Supportive bathing practices include:

• Using lukewarm water (avoiding hot water)

• Adding colloidal oatmeal to soothe irritation and reduce itching

• Using gentle mineral salts such as sea salt or Himalayan salt (if tolerated)

• Gently patting skin dry rather than rubbing

• Using towels washed in fragrance-free or low-irritant detergents

Some families also choose to reduce chemical exposure by using simple alternatives such as diluted vinegar in laundry routines, depending on skin sensitivity.

Clothing Choices for Sensitive Skin

Fabric choice can influence comfort and symptom flare frequency in children with eczema.

Recommended materials:

• Cotton

• Bamboo

These natural fibres are generally more breathable and less irritating than synthetic materials.

It is also advisable to wash new clothing before use to remove potential chemical residues from manufacturing processes.

Topical Skin Care Considerations

Topical management plays an important role in supporting skin barrier repair and symptom relief in eczema.

Moisturising regularly with gentle, well-formulated products may help reduce dryness and irritation.

Some individuals prefer to avoid corticosteroid creams unless medically indicated and supervised, instead focusing on barrier-supportive emollients and natural-based formulations. Treatment decisions should always be guided by a qualified healthcare practitioner based on the severity and presentation of the condition.

Environmental and Household Considerations

The home environment can influence skin reactivity in children with eczema.

Where possible, it may be beneficial to reduce exposure to:

• Harsh cleaning chemicals

• Strong fragrances in personal care or laundry products

• Irritating household sprays or detergents

Creating a lower-toxin, low-irritant environment may help reduce external triggers contributing to skin flare-ups.

A Holistic View of Eczema in Children

Eczema is not solely a skin condition—it reflects a broader interaction between the immune system, skin barrier function, and environmental exposures.

It is also recognised that eczema may coexist with other atopic conditions such as asthma and hay fever, reflecting a shared immune sensitivity pattern.

Supporting Your Child’s Skin Health

While eczema can be distressing for both children and parents, management is often most effective when it focuses on long-term skin barrier support, trigger awareness, and gentle, consistent care routines.

If your child is experiencing persistent or severe eczema, professional assessment is important to ensure appropriate diagnosis and management.

Final Thoughts

Supporting a child with eczema involves patience, observation, and a structured approach to identifying individual triggers. Small, consistent changes in diet, environment, skincare, and lifestyle routines can contribute to improved skin comfort over time.

For further guidance or educational resources, you can reach out via email or explore additional content designed to support families navigating infant and childhood skin conditions.