How to Relieve Baby Eczema for Better Sleep
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, affects nearly 1 in 5 children1, causing inflamed, itchy skin that can severely disrupt sleep. Babies with eczema often struggle to rest due to persistent itching, leading to exhaustion for both them and their caregivers. Fortunately, recent studies have shed light on effective treatments that can soothe eczema symptoms and improve sleep quality.
Understanding Baby Eczema and Sleep Disruptions
Eczema flare-ups make sleep difficult by triggering intense itching and discomfort. Research indicates that children with eczema lose an average of one full night of sleep per week due to scratching and irritation.2 Sleep deprivation can impact neurocognitive development, mood, and overall well-being.1
Effective Treatments for Baby Eczema
Recent studies highlight several approaches to managing eczema and improving sleep:
1. Moisturizing and Skin Barrier Protection
Using emollients (moisturizers) is a key strategy for managing eczema. However, research suggests that applying emollients from birth does not prevent eczema in high-risk infants. Instead, regular use of fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers can help reduce flare-ups and maintain skin hydration.1
2. Managing Environmental Triggers
Common irritants such as dust mites, harsh soaps, and synthetic fabrics can worsen eczema. Parents can improve sleep by doing the following:
Using soft cotton bedding and clothing
Keeping the baby’s room cool and humidified
Avoiding fragranced detergents and soaps
3. Nighttime Itch Relief Strategies
Applying moisturizer before bedtime to lock in hydration
Using cool compresses to soothe irritated skin
Keeping baby’s nails trimmed to prevent scratching injuries
4. Dietary Considerations
Some babies with eczema may have food sensitivities that worsen symptoms. Consulting a pediatrician or allergist can help identify potential triggers and adjust the diet accordingly.
5. Biologic Medications for Severe Cases
A groundbreaking study found that dupilumab, a biologic drug targeting allergic immune pathways, significantly reduces eczema symptoms in infants and young children.2 More than half of treated children experienced a 75% reduction in eczema signs, leading to improved sleep and quality of life.3 This treatment is now available for babies as young as six months old.
6. Anti-Inflammatory Treatments
Mild to moderate eczema is often managed with low-dose steroid creams or calcineurin inhibitors, which help reduce inflammation and itching. These treatments should be used under medical supervision to avoid side effects.1
The Impact of Eczema Treatment on Sleep
Parents report that once eczema symptoms are controlled, babies sleep through the night for the first time. Improved sleep leads to better mood, cognitive function, and overall health. Addressing eczema early can prevent long-term sleep disturbances and enhance a child’s well-being.
If you have relieved your child's eczema and are still having trouble getting your baby to sleep peacefully 10-12 hours through the night, or if you are not sure if it is actually the itching that is causing the sleep disruptions, consult a baby sleep specialist.
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