Short answer: Atopic eczema causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin and is most common in babies and young children; it often improves as they get older. The foundation of treatment is generous, daily use of unperfumed moisturisers (emollients) — at least twice a day, even when the skin looks clear. For flare-ups, a GP may prescribe a steroid cream, which is effective and safe when used as directed. Avoid soap and other irritants, and don't cut foods from your baby's diet without medical advice. Get an urgent GP appointment if eczema becomes blistered, crusty, weeping or has pus-filled spots.
Rough red cheeks. A flaky patch in the crease of the elbow. And at night, the sound of your baby rubbing against the sheets. Eczema is common, and very treatable.
What eczema is
Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a skin condition, not an allergy in itself. The skin barrier doesn't hold moisture well and lets irritants in, causing dryness, itching and inflammation. Scratching damages the barrier further, which is why the itch-scratch cycle can be so hard to break. It often runs in families alongside asthma and hay fever.
The foundation: moisturise generously, every day
- At least twice a day, and keep going when the skin looks better — that's what helps prevent flares.
- Unperfumed emollients: creams, ointments or lotions; greasier ones often work better for very dry skin. Your GP or pharmacist can help you find one your baby tolerates.
- Use a lot. UK guidance (NICE) recommends prescribing large quantities for children — 250 to 500 grams a week.
- Smooth it on in the direction of hair growth rather than rubbing it in.
- Wash with an emollient instead of soap.
- Hygiene: use a spoon or pump rather than fingers in the pot, and don't share emollients.
Moisturising on the good days is what prevents the bad days. Only moisturising when it's red is mopping the floor with the tap running.
Safety note: emollients can soak into clothing and bedding and make fabric catch fire more easily, so keep away from naked flames.
Steroid creams
Many parents worry about steroid creams, and that worry can leave children itching for longer than necessary. For flare-ups, NICE recommends mild-potency topical corticosteroids for mild eczema in children, alongside emollients, with stronger options for more severe eczema under medical guidance. Used as your GP or nurse explains — the right strength, for the right length of time — they are an effective, recommended treatment. Ask how much to use and for how long.
Common triggers
- soap, bubble bath and some washing detergents;
- heat and sweating — avoid overheating;
- rough or woolly fabrics against the skin; cotton is often more comfortable;
- skin infections;
- for some children, pets, pollen, house-dust mites or certain foods;
- dribble around the mouth, especially when teething.
Eczema and food
In some babies, food allergy can play a part, particularly with moderate or severe eczema that's hard to control. But don't cut out foods such as milk yourself: talk to your GP, who can assess whether allergy is likely and refer you if needed. If your baby has eczema, ask your GP or health visitor for advice before introducing common allergens like egg and peanut — though for most babies these are still introduced from around six months. See allergy or intolerance?
When to see a GP
- Itching is disturbing your baby's sleep or daily life.
- Eczema isn't improving despite regular emollients.
- You're unsure how to use treatments.
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111 (or your local equivalent) if eczema becomes blistered, crusty, starts leaking fluid or has pus-filled spots, especially if your baby is unwell — these can be signs of infection, including eczema herpeticum, which needs prompt treatment.
Related reading
Month by month: The First Year (PDF, English) guides you through your baby's first twelve months.
Sources
- NHS — Atopic eczema.
- NICE — Atopic eczema in under 12s: diagnosis and management (CG57).
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org — Eczema in babies and children.
Written by the Bloom Guides editorial team. Last updated: 20 October 2026. General information only — not a substitute for advice from your GP, health visitor or pharmacist.