Moms: Breast Milk Minimizes Infant Atopic Dermatitis

Topical application of human breast milk has been deemed extremely beneficial for infants with atopic dermatitis.

According to a study published online in the International Journal of Dermatology, applying breast milk on the affected areas of skin is reported as efficacious as commonly used hydrocortisone 1% ointment.

Prior studies have shown human breast milk (HBM) to be a viable preventive measure and effective treatment of some sores and infections.

Hengameh Kasrae, BSc from the Arak University of Medical Sciences in Iran, and colleagues, Leila Amiri Farahani, MSc and Parsa Yousefi, MD, examined the short-term efficacy of topical application of human breast milk versus hydrocortisone 1% ointment in infants afflicted with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis, with the majority of infants suffering from moderate severity.

Infants with diagnosed atopic dermatitis within a pediatric unit were randomized to either receive human breast milk or hydrocortisone.

The study results indicated that there were no significant differences between the groups at days zero, 7, 14, and 21. Additionally, the researchers were pleased to note that the interventions in both groups demonstrated similar effects.

The researchers also touted low cost and accessibility of human breast milk. "We recommend the use of human breast milk for curing infant atopic eczema due to its healing effect and availability.

"The results of the present study suggest that the human breast milk can improve infant atopic eczema with the same results as 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment,” the authors concluded.