Eczema during pregnancy and after childbirth is a challenge faced by many mothers. This is a period of tremendous change, during which the skin often becomes reactive, dry, and irritated.
At InaEssentials, we understand that during this special stage of life, safety is the highest priority. Nature offers gentle solutions that are both effective and kind to both mother and baby.
In this guide, we will explore the reasons eczema appears during this period and offer tried-and-tested natural methods for managing it.
Article Contents:
Why eczema appears during pregnancy or after childbirth
Pregnancy is a period of intense hormonal changes that directly affect the immune system and the skin's barrier function. A high percentage of women with a predisposition to atopy experience a worsening of symptoms during these nine months. But eczema often appears for the very first time during pregnancy (known as atopic eruption of pregnancy).
After childbirth, oestrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply, which can lead to severe skin dehydration. Add to this the stress, lack of sleep, and frequent handwashing when caring for your baby — all of these create the perfect conditions for eczema to develop. The most commonly affected areas are the hands, neck, face, and chest.
Safe natural remedies for relief
When conventional medications are limited, nature comes to the rescue with remedies that pose no risk to the health of mother or baby:
- Cold-pressed coconut oil: Rich in lauric acid, it has natural antibacterial properties and helps soothe itching. Apply to damp skin for better absorption. If applied to dry skin, it may actually dehydrate it further.
- Oatmeal compresses: Colloidal oats contain compounds that help bring relief. Make a paste from finely ground oats and water, place it on the irritated area for 15 minutes, then rinse gently with cool water.
- Shea Butter: Exceptionally rich in vitamins A and E, it is one of the safest ways to restore the lipid layer while breastfeeding.
Organic Chamomile Water during pregnancy and the postnatal period
Chamomile is a symbol of calm in herbal medicine and one of the few herbs that are perfectly suitable for use even on newborns. Its action is gentle yet effective. Organic chamomile water acts as a natural antiseptic.
During pregnancy, when skin can become extremely sensitive to fragrances and heavy ingredients, pure floral water offers relief without the risk of irritation. It soothes burning and redness almost instantly. In the postnatal period, it is indispensable for hand hygiene, as hands often crack from constant washing — using chamomile water helps microcuts close more quickly.
Practical daily tips for new mothers
• Avoid hot showers: Although relaxing, they strip the skin of its natural oils. Opt for cool water instead.
• Cotton clothing: Synthetic fabrics and wool can worsen eczema. Wear 100% cotton, which allows the skin to breathe.
• Hydrate from within: Drink plenty of water. Pregnancy and breastfeeding deplete your body's water reserves, and the skin is always the first to show it.
Precautions and hygiene
When caring for a baby, hand eczema can be not only painful but also a risk for infection. Always keep your nails short to avoid scratching during sleep. Use sulphate- and paraben-free household cleaning products.
Our gentle solution for sensitive skin during pregnancy and breastfeeding
For mothers who never compromise on quality, our Organic Chamomile Water — Hydrolina is the perfect companion in combating irritation.
Organic Chamomile Water — Hydrolina for sensitive skin
Our natural hydrolat soothes itching, reduces redness, and hydrates deeply. Ideal for daily use on the face and body, leaving your skin calm and healthy.
VIEW THE PRODUCT HEREWhy Organic Chamomile Water, and not just chamomile tea?
We are often asked: "Can I not just brew chamomile tea?". Our answer is always the same: Chamomile is a wonderful herb, but the way we extract it determines the quality.
Here is why our Hydrolina Chamomile Water is far more powerful than a home-brewed infusion:
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The power of distillation versus brewing: With tea, you only extract the water-soluble components (often from already dried flowers), and during the boiling process a large portion of the beneficial compounds evaporate as they have high volatility. With our primary steam distillation, hot steam passes through fresh flowers and extracts the most valuable elements — microscopic particles of chamomile essential oil — preserving the beneficial properties in the greatest volume. These particles are the "soul" of the plant and have a far more potent effect.
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Purity and safety: In eczema, the skin barrier is compromised — it is like an open door to bacteria. Home-brewed tea is non-sterile and microorganisms can quickly develop in it, potentially worsening the condition. Our Hydrolina is a completely pure product that is safe for prolonged topical use, provided it is stored correctly.
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The right pH: Tea can sometimes have an overly astringent (drying) effect due to the tannins released when the herb steeps in boiling water. InaEssentials Organic Water has a perfectly balanced pH that is fully in harmony with your skin.
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Convenience for busy mothers: We know your time is precious. Rather than brewing, straining, and cooling a tea (which loses its properties within a few hours), you have a ready-to-use product that is easy to apply.
