Because the cause is unknown, there are currently no guidelines for reducing your risk of
atopic dermatitis. Some studies, though, suggest that you may be able to reduce your child's risk by:
- Breastfeeding
- For bottlefed infants, using a certain kind of formula—Ask the doctor if your baby should have a hydrolyzed casein, 100% whey protein, or other hypoallergenic formula.
- For newborns who are at high risk for eczema, applying a daily moisturizer may help reduce the risk of atopic dermatitis.
- Exposing your child to pets at an early age
- Having your child eat fish at an early age (before nine months)
- Taking probiotics while pregnant and after giving birth (if you are breastfeeding)
As the understanding of the condition grows, your doctor may have more information regarding steps for reducing your risk of atopic dermatitis.
If you have atopic dermatitis, you may be able to control the onset of an outbreak by controlling certain triggers. For tips on controlling outbreaks, see
Lifestyle Treatments for Managing Atopic Dermatitis.
