Eczema during pregnancy and after childbirth is a challenge that many mothers face. This is a period of profound change, during which the skin often becomes reactive, dry, and easily 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 mother and baby.
In this guide, we will explore the causes of eczema during this period and suggest 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 shifts that directly affect the immune system and the skin's barrier function. A significant proportion of women with a predisposition to atopy notice a worsening of symptoms during these nine months. In many cases, eczema appears for the very first time during pregnancy — a condition known as atopic eruption of pregnancy.
After birth, oestrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply, which can cause pronounced skin dehydration. Add to this the stress, sleep deprivation, and frequent hand-washing that come with caring for a newborn, and you have 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 treatments are limited, nature steps in with options that do not pose a risk to the health of mother or baby:
- Cold-pressed coconut oil: Rich in lauric acid, it has natural antibacterial properties and helps to calm itching. Apply to damp skin for better absorption — applying it to dry skin risks drawing out even more moisture.
- Oatmeal compresses: Colloidal oats contain compounds that support skin comfort. Make a paste from finely ground oats and water, apply it to 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 help restore the lipid layer during breastfeeding.
Organic Chamomile Water during pregnancy and the postnatal period
Chamomile is a symbol of calm in herbal care and one of the few plants considered entirely appropriate for use even with newborns. Its action is gentle yet effective. Organic chamomile water acts as a natural antiseptic.
During pregnancy, when the 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 invaluable for hand hygiene — hands that crack from constant washing benefit greatly from the regular use of chamomile water, which supports faster closure of micro-cracks.
Practical everyday tips for mothers
• Avoid hot showers: As relaxing as they are, they strip the skin of its natural oils. Opt for lukewarm water instead.
• Cotton clothing: Synthetic fabrics and wool can worsen eczema. Wear 100% cotton, which allows the skin to breathe.
• Hydration from within: Drink enough water. Pregnancy and breastfeeding draw heavily on the body's water reserves, and this shows first in the skin.
Precautions and hygiene
When caring for a baby, hand eczema can be not only painful but also a risk for infections. Always keep your nails short to avoid scratching in your sleep. Use sulphate-free and paraben-free cleaning products around the home.
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 the care of irritated skin.
Organic Chamomile Water — Hydrolina for sensitive skin
Our natural hydrolat soothes itching, reduces redness, and provides deep hydration. Ideal for everyday 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 just brew chamomile tea?" Our answer is always the same: Chamomile is a wonderful plant, but the way we extract it determines the quality.
Here is why our Chamomile Hydrolina is far more potent than a homemade infusion:
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The power of distillation versus boiling: With tea, you extract only the water-soluble components (often from already dried flowers), and much of the beneficial matter evaporates during boiling due to its high volatility. With our primary steam distillation, hot steam passes through fresh flowers and draws out the most precious essence — microscopic particles of chamomile essential oil — preserving the beneficial properties in the greatest possible volume. These particles are the "soul" of the plant and have a far stronger effect.
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Purity and safety: In eczema the skin barrier is compromised — it is like an open door to bacteria. Homemade tea is non-sterile and micro-organisms develop in it quickly, which can worsen the condition. Our Hydrolina is a completely pure product that is safe for long-term use, provided it is stored correctly.
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The right pH: Tea can often have an overly astringent (drying) effect due to the tannins released when the plant steeps in boiling water. InaEssentials' organic water has a perfectly balanced pH that is in full harmony with your skin.
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Convenience for busy mothers: We know your time is precious. Instead of 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.
