Sea moss is a red seaweed that grows in tide pools and waters along rocky coasts. It is edible and present in some cosmetic products for topical use. Some people believe it can improve hair and skin health, although reports of cosmetic benefits are largely anecdotal.

This article discusses baby eczema, the possible benefits of sea moss for baby skin, and considerations for potential side effects. We also consider alternative treatments for baby eczema.

What is baby eczema?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is the most commonTrusted Source chronic inflammatory skin disorder in children. It affects 25% of children, with 60% of cases occurring during a child’s first year.

Baby eczema causes dry skin, itchiness, and scratching, and presents as itchy lesions on the skin.

The lesions typically appear in distinct areas which differ between age groups.

In infants up to 6 months, eczema most often appears on the face, chin, forehead, and scalp. The skin may appear red and may ooze from the lesions.

In infants between 6–12 months, eczema typically presents on the knees and elbows. If the lesions become infected, they may form small pus-filled bumps or a yellow crust.

What are the benefits of sea moss for baby skin?

Parents and caregivers should always seek advice from a medical expert on how to treat baby eczema.

Treating baby eczema as early as possible is important to prevent the condition from worsening. Babies with eczema may be more prone to skin infections, as eczema may make it easier for viruses and bacteria to enter through the skin.

A common treatment for eczema is corticosteroids or cortisone cream. Some doctors recommend parents and caregivers not treat children younger than 2 years with hydrocortisone.

According to the National Eczema Association, children who have exposure to excessive amounts of hydrocortisone cream may experience delayed weight gain and slower growth.

Other side effects from hydrocortisone cream can include:

• skin irritation
• dry and cracking skin
• slow healing of wounds
• changes in skin color
• burning sensation
• increase in hair growth

If a healthcare professional recommends using sea moss as an alternative to corticosteroids, people may either feed this plant to an infant or use it as a topical treatment.

While there are currently no clinical studies on the benefits of sea moss, seaweed has several potentially beneficial properties, includingTrusted Source:

• anti-inflammatory
• antifungal
• antiviral
• antioxidant
• UV-protective
• antidiabetic
• immunomodulatory

Seaweed also contains many vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibers, such as:

• vitamin A
• vitamin B1
• vitamin B12
• vitamin C
• vitamin D
• vitamin E
• vitamin K
• iron
• calcium
• magnesium
• iodine
• potassium
• zinc
• selenium

Seaweed also contains polyphenols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

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