Moisturizing your baby daily until they reach six months could significantly reduce their chances of developing eczema. Eczema impacts over 20% of children, with atopic dermatitis being the most common type, especially in infants. While some children outgrow it, for others, it can become a lifelong condition that leads to various issues, including sleep disturbances, weight concerns, allergies, and asthma.
However, there may be an effective solution to prevent atopic dermatitis from ever occurring. Recent research indicates that one of the most budget-friendly options is likely sitting in your medicine cabinet — good old petroleum jelly.
The key is to apply moisturizer all over your baby’s skin—except for the scalp—at least five times a week during the first six months. A study conducted by researchers at Oregon Health & Science University in 2014 found that parents who followed this regimen halved their newborns’ risk of developing atopic dermatitis. That’s amazing! Dedicating just five minutes a day to moisturizing could make such a huge difference.
What’s even better is the cost-effectiveness of this treatment. If you’ve ever purchased eczema creams, you know they can cost a fortune. Families with a child suffering from eczema can spend up to 35% of their discretionary income on treatment each month. Dr. Mark Thompson, a dermatology resident at the University of Chicago, analyzed the costs of various moisturizers used in the study to identify the most affordable yet effective option for parents. The winner? Petroleum jelly, priced at a mere $7.30 for a six-month supply. This is a fantastic solution to help prevent what could turn into a lifelong health problem.
“We could alleviate a lot of discomfort for newborns and ease the financial burden on families,” Dr. Thompson shared with us. In contrast, other moisturizers in the study had much higher price tags, with the most expensive being a specialized ointment costing an eye-watering $173.39 for a six-month supply.
Though you can opt for pricier options, that tub of Vaseline is a versatile and effective choice for everything from moisturizing to keeping your lips soft. Petroleum jelly is recommended for eczema treatment by the National Eczema Association, albeit typically not for prevention. The American Academy of Pediatrics also endorses petroleum jelly as a top moisturizer for treating atopic dermatitis due to its excellent hydrating properties.
Moreover, it’s safe. “Petroleum jelly is free from fragrances and preservatives that might irritate the skin or trigger allergies,” Dr. Thompson noted. If you prefer not to use it on your baby, especially if you’re saving it for makeup removal, there are other budget-friendly alternatives. Sunflower seed oil ranks as the second most affordable option, costing $18.25 for a six-month supply.
Before starting any new skincare routine, it’s wise to consult with your pediatrician. The infants in the study were considered high-risk for eczema, having a parent or sibling with conditions like hay fever or allergies.
Long-term studies are needed to determine whether these babies will remain eczema-free and how moisturization impacts associated conditions like allergies. Nevertheless, the findings are promising, and trying this treatment poses minimal risk for at-risk infants. “Gentle, simple moisturizers have little to no risk for newborns,” Dr. Thompson reassured us.
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Summary:
Applying a simple moisturizer like petroleum jelly to your baby’s skin can significantly reduce the risk of developing eczema, all while being budget-friendly. Research shows that regular moisturizing during the first six months of life can cut the risk of atopic dermatitis in half. While more expensive products are available, petroleum jelly offers an effective and safe alternative that has been endorsed by medical professionals.