Experts do not know the cause of eczema. However, eczema seems to be a result of both environmental factors and genetic (hereditary) factors. There are common triggers that can cause the skin to flare-up and rash. It is important to talk to your physician to help determine what these triggers are to keep the skin healthy and the baby happy.

Eczema environmental culprits include:

• Wool and other scratchy fabrics
• Chronic, extremely dry air
• Cigarette smoke
• Chemicals in certain soaps and detergents

Allergens

Allergens can also trigger an flare-up, resulting in eczema skin rash. Allergens are substances from food, plants or animals that provoke an overreaction of the immune system and cause the skin to become inflamed. Common eczema allergens include:

• Food allergens: cow's milk, soy, wheat, eggs
• Household dust and mites
• Mold
• Pollen
• Dog or cat dander

It can be difficult to identify which one of these triggers is responsible for your baby's eczema skin rash reaction. However, talking with your doctor about exposure to the items listed above, correlation of rashes to mealtimes, and family history will help identify a small number of suspected culprits.

Family History