My boy had AWFUL eczema. He'd scratch to bleeding even in his sleep. We tried everything. The thing that helped the most was organic coconut oil.
http://www.amazon.com/Spectrum-Naturals-Coconut-Organic-l...
At first we used it in addition to all the other tips and tricks. Now we use it when he flares up or starts getting dry skin. He is 4 now.
Apply coconut oil to all the trouble spots any time you change a diaper. or if she's potty trained already (and wow if she is!!), first thing in the morning, and whenever you think about it, plus a ton right before bedtime..
We mixed powdered mangosteen into Eucerin cream. That worked well, too. But nothing works as well as the coconut oil.
-use ALL free and clear laundry detergent
-avoid all allergens
-luke-warm bath with NO soap 3 times a week. Air or pat dry. Apply coconut oil within 3 minutes of getting out of tub.
-Cetaphil liquid soap for washing hands and body. You don't have to wash it all off...it just absorbs into the skin....so quick rinse.....http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-daily-facial-cleanser-norm...
-avoid overheating
-keep nails clipped short
-wear pj's that cover the knees and ankles if she scratches in her sleep. http://www.amazon.com/Private-Label-Toddler-2-Piece-Sleev... (tuck tube socks under long sleeves if she scratches her wrists and elbows, too.
So, the more days she goes with slathering on the coconut oil, the more she'll heal, the softer her skin will become, the less she'll need the coconut oil. Apply as much or as little coconut oil between outbreaks as you feel comfortable with.
It will get better, hang in there!
the oil is solid at room temperature, but melts on your hand.
my son was NOT allergic to dairy or soy. He was allergic to oats - which ruled out alot of eczema lotions. He's also very allergic to peanuts.