Can dry skin in babies cause eczema?
Disease description:
My baby's skin has recently become so dry that it's peeling, and he/she keeps scratching his/her face, resulting in some small red rashes. Can dry skin cause eczema? How should I moisturize and care for my baby's skin?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
In general, dry skin in babies may lead to eczema.
Eczema is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by skin redness, itching, and dryness. A baby's skin is thinner and more delicate than that of an adult, and its barrier function has not yet fully matured, making it more susceptible to external irritants and moisture loss. When a baby's skin becomes dry, the skin barrier function is compromised, making it more vulnerable to irritants and allergens, which can trigger or worsen eczema.
However, the pathogenesis of eczema is not simply due to dry skin; it may also be related to various other factors, including genetic predisposition, immune system abnormalities, and environmental influences. Therefore, when addressing eczema in babies, in addition to moisturizing care, other contributing factors should be comprehensively considered, and medical consultation should be sought when necessary for diagnosis and treatment.
In daily life, parents can apply mild, non-irritating moisturizing creams or lotions regularly, and dress babies in soft, breathable clothing to reduce friction and irritation, thereby helping to prevent the occurrence of eczema.
