Children with atopic dermatitis or eczema are prone to having recurrent skin infections. Dilute bleach baths may have a useful role in the management of patients with atopic dermatitis or eczema, particularly those prone to recurrent infection and atopic dermatitis or eczema flares.
How does a Bleach Bath help children with atopic dermatitis or eczema?
A mild bleach and water solution is thought to decrease inflammation and reduce the amount of bacteria on the skin, which can lead to skin infections in children with atopic dermatitis or eczema.
What is the method to do a Bleach Bath for children with atopic dermatitis or eczema?
A concentration of 0.005% bleach is made by adding 120 mL (1/2 cup) of 6% household bleach to a full bathtub (estimated to be 40 gallons) of water.
The amount of bleach should be adjusted based on the size of the bathtub and the amount of water in the tub.
The steps of bleach bath as follows:
- Add Bleach to the Tub: ½ cup for full tube, ¼ cup for half tub, 2 table spoons for baby tub
- Soak the child for 10 minutes. [Do NOT submerge the head]
- Rinse with fresh water
- Apply moisturizer liberally
How frequently Bleach Baths be used for children with atopic dermatitis or eczema?
Bleach baths are usually done twice a week, sometimes can be done three times a week depending on the need of the baby with atopic dermatitis or eczema.
BE careful!!
Do NOT apply the bleach directly to your child’s atopic dermatitis or eczema. While the tub is filling, pour the bleach into the water. Make sure to wait until the bathtub is full and bleach is poured before child enters the tub.
In case your child is having atopic dermatitis or eczema you need to get in touch with a pediatric allergy specialist for a proper diagnosis, investigations, treatment and follow up.
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Medical Advice & Clinical Disclaimer
The educational medical guidance provided in this guide is for informational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for direct pediatric consultation, physical diagnosis, or clinical prescription. For individualized medical assessment of your child, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ankit Parakh.
