Don’t worry, Consult with an Ayurvedic pediatrician for further advice and treatment…
HELLO ROHIT,
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that often begins in infancy. It’s understandable that your are looking for safe long term and natural solutions for your baby, especially since he is under 1 year old and exclusively breastfed
WHAT CAUSES ATOPIC DERMATITIS IN INFANTS Atopic dermatitis is multifactorial -a combination of genetic, immune and environmental influences
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS IN AN EXCLUSIVELY BREASTFED INFANTS
1) MATERNAL DIET ALLERGENS -proteins from cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, or wheat can pass into breast milk and triggers flare ups -consider an elimination diet under nutritional or paediatric supervision
2) GENETIC PREDISPOSITION -family history of eczema, asthma or allergies increases risk
3) IMMATURE SKIN BARRIER -infants have thinner, more sensitive skin with reduced barrier function, making them more vulnerable to irritants and allergens
ENVIRONMENTAL AND LIFESTYLE TRIGGERS TO WATCH
FABRICS= use soft, breathable cotton. Avoid wool, polyester, or tight clothing.
TEMPERATURE= avoid overheating or sudden temperature changes. Use humidifiers in dry weather.
BATHING= use lukewarm water. Keep baths short(5-10 mins). Avoid soaps; use fragrance-free, pH - balanced cleansers
HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS= switch to fragrance-free, dye- free laundry detergents and cleaning products
DUST, MITES, PETS= maintain dust-free, pet - hair- free rooms if possible. Use HEPA filters
SAFE AND EFFECTIVE TREATMENT OPTIONS
CONVENTIONAL PEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY CARE
1) MOISTURIZATION(cornerstone treatment) -apply thick, fragrance free emollients multiple times daily -ointments like Vaseline, aquaphor, or prescription barrier creams are effective
2) ANTI INFLAMMATORY CARE - only when necessary -Low potency topical steroids (like 1% hydrocortisone) are safe for sort term use under paediatric guidance -Steroid-sparing agents like calcineurin inhibitors (eg tacrolimus) may be used sparingly in older children but not recommended in infants
3) WET WRAP THERAPY -useful for severe flares= moisture, wrap the area in damp cotton, and then dry cotton to lock moisture in.
NATURAL AND AYURVEDICAPPROACHES
EVIDENCE- INFORMED AYURVEDIC REMEDIES
TOPICAL -ELADI TAILA OR KUMKUMADI TAILA= cooling and moisturising may soothe inflammation -NEEM OIL OR ALOE VERA GEL= natural anti inflammatory- test a small patch before applying widely
INTERNAL (FOR LACTATING MOTHER ONLY) -triphala, manjistha, and guduchi to purify blood and reduce allergic tendencies
DIETARY ADJUSTMENTS(for mother) -avoid known allergens, especially cow’s milk, spicy and fermented foods -include turmeric, flax seeds, ghee and cooling herbs in the maternal diet
BREASTFEEDING MODIFICATIONS -try an elimination diet for 2-4 weeks- starting with dairy -reintroduce foods one at a time to monitor effects -consider maternal probiotics- some evidence suggests they may help reduce allergic conditions in infants
LIFELONG STRATERGIES TO PREVENT FLARE-UPS
CONSISTENT MOISTURIZATION= maintains barrier function, reducing flare frequency
TRIGGER AVOIDANCE= identify and avoid environmental, dietary, and chemical triggers
EARLY ALLERGEN MANAGEMENT= slow, guided introduction of solids may reduce later allergies
SKIN FRIENDLY HYGIENE= gentle, minimalist skincare routines for life
PROBIOTICS (for baby and mother)= May support immune modulation and gut health
REGULAR DERMATOLOGIC MONITORING= track progression and modify care accordingly
CAN IT INDICATE FUTURE ALLERGIES OR ASTHMA? yes, Atopic dermatitis is often part of the atopic march , which can include -food allergies -asthma-allergic rhinits
Not all children with AD will go on to develop these, but risk is higher. early management and allergen avoidance can reduce severity or delay onset.
IS THERE A PERMENENT CURE? -no guaranteed permanent cure, but many children outgrow or see reduced severity by age 3-5 .
Long-term remission is possible with -consistent skin care -dietary management -trigger avoidance -strengthening immunity - natural and medical approaches
-Atopic Dermatitis is manageable, especially in infancy with early intervention -Avoid over reliance on steroids- focus on barrier care, natural anti-inflammatory support and elimination of triggers -document flares, food exposures, and environmental conditions- a dairy helps in identifying patterns
THANK YOU
DR. HEMANSHU MEHTA
WH 5oint for local application. You should Follow diet restrictions. Avoid spicy, oily and processed food. Increase intake of raw vegetables and fruits.
Hello Rohit ,
I truly understand your concern. As a father, it’s deeply upsetting to see your little one struggle, especially when they’re just beginning life and are so dependent on you. You’ve done the right thing by observing closely and asking the right questions and I want to gently assure you that atopic dermatitis in infants is manageable, and in many cases, it improves completely as the baby grows.
Even in an exclusively breastfed baby, certain allergens or inflammatory triggers from the mother’s diet can subtly pass through breast milk. Foods like cow’s milk, eggs, nuts (especially peanuts and cashews), tomatoes, fermented food, and wheat can sometimes contribute to skin flare-ups. These do not cause harm in all babies, but in sensitive ones, they can aggravate underlying imbalances, especially if there’s a strong family history of allergies or asthma.
In Ayurveda, we see this condition as a Pitta-Vata imbalance along with Rasa dhatu dusti meaning the baby’s skin and tissues are sensitive, reactive, and undernourished at a subtle level. The good news is that with simple daily care, conscious maternal diet, and gentle natural remedies, flare-ups can be reduced significantly and your baby’s immunity and skin strength will improve over time.
Here’s what you can follow right now, step-by-step:
External Care (Safe and Non-steroid)
Oil massage: Use Eladi Taila or Kumari Taila mixed with cold-pressed coconut oil. Warm gently and apply softly on affected areas twice daily, especially before a bath. Avoid if skin is red or oozing.
Bath water: Add Triphala decoction or a few Neem leaves to warm bath water. Avoid using soap altogether or use only natural baby ubtan powders.
After bath: If skin is dry, dust lightly with Yashtimadhu + Lodhra powder. Keep the baby well-moisturized.
Clothes: Use only 100% cotton. Wash baby’s clothes with plain, fragrance-free soap or mild baby detergent. Always double rinse.
Avoid overheating: Dress lightly and avoid wool or fleece directly on the skin.
Maternal Diet Correction (Since the Baby is Breastfed)
Avoid for at least 3 weeks (reintroduce slowly):
Cow’s milk, paneer, ghee, curd Eggs, peanuts, cashews, walnuts Tomatoes, brinjal, spinach Bakery items, sugar, fried snacks Fermented foods
Include:
Warm meals: moong dal, rice, lauki, pumpkin Dry ginger, fennel, coriander in moderation Soaked almonds, dates, and raisins Turmeric milk (2–3 times/week) Plenty of warm water throughout the day
This helps purify breast milk and reduces inflammatory load on the baby’s system.
Ayurvedic Support (For the Mother)
Sukumaram Kashayam – 15 ml + 45 ml warm water before meals (twice a day) Guduchi Churna – ½ tsp in warm water in the morning Shatavari Churna – ½ tsp with milk at night
These detoxify, balance Pitta, and nourish the mother to improve milk quality gently.
Long-Term Outlook With regular oil care, skin hydration, careful diet, and good digestion, the skin can heal completely. Many babies outgrow atopic dermatitis by toddlerhood especially when the immune system is supported gently now.
Yes, there is a possibility of future allergic issues or asthma in some babies but with preventive Ayurvedic care, that risk can be minimized.
Steroids are rarely needed. If you start natural care early, flare-ups reduce drastically, and your baby’s immune strength can be built beautifully without suppressive treatments.
Investigations (only if needed): Serum IgE CBC CRP Stool test (if digestion issues or colic are present)
You’re doing an incredible job as a father — being attentive, protective, and seeking gentle healing. That in itself is powerful. With a little consistency, love, and natural care, your baby will grow healthier, stronger, and more resilient.
If you have any doubts, you can contact me. Take care, Regards, Dr. Karthika
HELLO ROHIT,
Atopic dermatitis , also known as eczema, is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disorder. It is common in infants and often starts before the age of 1. The condition is not caused by infection and is not contagious.
WHY IT HAPPENS EVEN IN EXCLUSIVELY BREASTFED INFANTS? Even though your baby only consumes breast milk, the condition can be triggered by
GENETICS= a strong family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies increases risk
IMMATURE IMMUNE SYSTEM= that infant’s immune system may overreact to minor allergens or skin irritants
MATERNAL DIET= proteins from cow’s milk, egg, nuts, soy etc , consumed by the mother can pass into breast milk and trigger inflammation
ENVIRONMENTAL TRIGGERS= temperature extremes, dust mites, fragrances , soaps, and detergents can damage the baby’s skin barrier
SKIN BARRIER DEFECT= many babies have less natural moisturising factors (like filaggrin), which causes dry, reactive skin.
MOTHERS DIET AND LIFESTYLE CORRECTIONS as she is breast-feeding, her diet directly impacts the baby. Here’s how to adjust it carefully without compromising your or the baby’s nutrition
MATERNAL DIET- WHAT TO EAT: Anti inflammatory, cooling, and pitta balancing foods -moong dal khichdi, vegetables(lauki, tori, pumpkin), rice, ghee, butter milk -herbal teas=fennel,coriander, guduchi, cardamom -fruits= pomegranate, papaya , apple(peeled, cooked), guava
HYDRATION= 2.5-3 Litres of warm water daily
FOODS TO AVOID
ALLERGENS= cow’s milk, eggs, nuts, shellfish, soy(try elimination)
PITTA AGGRAVATING= spicy, sour, fermented, deep fried , pickles, tomatoes, chillies
PROCESSED FOODS= biscuits, instant mix, refined oils, junk food
HEAVY PROTEINS= mutton, fish, excessive panner or cheese
AVOID -smoking, caffeine, alcohol- if any - staying up late(pitta vata imbalance) -high stress - increases cortisol, worsens inflammation
BABY’S TREATMENT PLAN we aim to heal the skin barrier, reduce itch and inflammation, prevent secondary infections, and balance the immune system gently
1) SKIN CARE= MOST CRUCIAL
BATHING= 5-10 min lukewarm water. very mild soap(cetaphil baby wash or natural beast paste with turmeric). avoid daily soap use
MOISTURIZE= immediately after bath and apply this 2-3 times daily use fragrance free emollients like -CeraVe baby moisturiser -Musela stelatopia
AVOID= talcum powders, heavily fragranced products, baby wipes with alcohol, synthetic clothes
TOPICCAL AYURVEDA- SAFE FOR BABY USE
1) NALPAMRADI TAILA= for gentle bay massage 2-3 times/week. Avoid during active flare
2) ALOEVERA + YASHTIMADHU CHURNA PASTE= soothing during redness/ itching.
3) CHANDANADI LEPA= anti inflammatory during flare up
4) GUDUCHI DECOCTION(for mother)= acts as an immune modulator and blood purifier. 1 tsp in warm water daily
INTERNAL MEDICATIONS(FOR MOTHER)
-TRIPHALA CHURNA= 1 tsp at night with warm water =improves digestion and detoxification
-GUDUCHI JUICE= reduces inflammation, enhances immunity
-MANJISTHA GHAN VATI= 1 tab twice daily after meals =blood purifier, skin healer
-SHATAVARI + YASHTIMADHU CHURNA= 1 tsp shatavari + 1/2 tsp yashtimadhu with warm milk at night =supports lactation and reduces inflammation
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR BABY
NEEM LEAVES DECOCTION= add 2-3 neem leaves to bath water=2 times/week =anti itching, antimicrobial
GREEN GRAM FLOUR= mix with water and gently apply instead of soap-acts as natural cleanser
ALOE VERA PULP (fresh)- cooling and healing =apply thin layer during flare ups
LIFELONG STRATERGIES AND PREVENTION
0-1 YEAR= strict skin hydration, dietary control for mother, gentle skin care
1-3 YEARS= watch for food reactions during weaning, introduce allergenic food slowly
3-5 YEARS= consider allergy testing if persistent or severe symptoms
ONGOING= avoid synthetic fabrics, stress, harsh soaps, overuse of antibiotics
Long term remission is possible Many children outgrow eczema or see a major reduction in flare ups by age 3-5, especially with early, consistent care
WHAT INCREASES CHANCES OF REMISSION -early intervention -breastfeeding with mindful maternal diet -avoiding excessive medications- especially steroids -natural immune development through gut health, skin barrier maintenance - ayurvedic support(mother+baby) to balance doshas and build immunity
SEEK EXPERTS HELP IF -lesions ooze or crust -flare ups become frequent or wide spread - baby is losing sleep or not feeding well
HOPE THIS MIGHT BE HELPFUL
THANK YOU
GOD BLESS YOUR BABY
DR. MAITRI ACHARYA
Atopic Dermatitis in infants can be complex involving various factors like genetics, environment, and diet. It’s understandable that you’re concerned about diet as food proteins from dairy, eggs, or nuts can indeed pass into breast milk and potentially cause reactions. Monitoring your diet and observing any changes in your baby’s skin condition is a practical step. Eliminate suspected allergens one by one to see if there’s any improvement.
Environmental factors also play a role — aim for a stable, cool temperature at home and use a humidifier if the air is dry. Ensure clothing is made of soft, breathable fabrics, like cotton, and avoid harsh detergents or scented household products. Be cautious with bathing routines; use lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free cleansers. Moisturize the baby’s skin immediately after bath while it’s still damp to lock in moisture.
For treatment, Ayurveda looks at underlying dosha imbalances. Atopic Dermatitis is often linked to vata or pitta imbalances. Apply calming and moisturizing remedies like coconut oil or ghee to affected areas. Shatavari and Yashtimadhu internally are known for their soothing properties. Try adding a paste of turmeric and honey to reduce inflammation, though consult an ayurvedic practitioner for personalized advice, especially when it comes to infants.
Long-term remission can be fortified by nourishing a strong immune system from early on through a balanced maternal diet and using natural remedies. As your child grows, continue to minimize known allergens, and watch for changes. There may be future leniency with certain food allergies, although eczema can be a precursor to other allergies or asthma in later life.
While there is no guaranteed cure, managing triggers and maintaining skin health can achieve significant relief. Babies often outgrow this condition with proper care, so consistency is key without heavily relying on steroid treatments.
Atopic Dermatitis in infants can be perplexing. The condition may be rooted in a combination of genetics, immune system responses, and environmental factors. Breast milk is generally protective, but certain allergens, possibly from your diet, might pass through and contribute to symptoms. Consider observing any correlation between the intake of common allergens like dairy, eggs, and nuts with your baby’s flare-ups. Eliminating one suspected allergen at a time, and monitoring for a week or two, might provide insights.
Environmental factors are crucial. Fabrics like wool or synthetic materials might irritate sensitive skin. Opt for soft, breathable cotton clothing washed with mild, fragrance-free detergents. Control room temperature to avoid overheating and excessive sweating, both of which can exacerbate symptoms. Bathing should be with lukewarm water and kept short, followed by pat drying rather than rubbing; moisturizing immediately after is vital for trapping moisture.
Ayurvedic approaches involve cooling and soothing practices, considering the imbalance of Pitta dosha, which drives inflammation. Grow and grind neem leaves to make a paste with turmeric; applying this on red patches can help in soothing inflammation. Calm the skin by using coconut oil, which is naturally antimicrobial and keeps skin moisturized; apply lightly several times daily. Enhance the body’s agni by ensuring your diet supports a strong metabolism—ginger and cumin in moderation can help balance bodily responses.
Although permanent cures are elusive, managing symptoms effectively can lead to long-term remission. Support your child’s immune development with a nourishing environment, incorporating probiotics and omega-3 rich foods when your physician advises introducing solids. Keep a diary of episodes and environmental changes to identify triggers.
Monitoring eczema can help gauge potential future allergies. Stay observant, as some children with eczema develop other immune-related conditions. Atopic Dermatitis can sometimes signal a propensity for conditions like asthma or allergic rhinitis later, thus regular appointments to keep discussions open with healthcare providers is wise.
