The aim of a study published in Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology was to examine whether infants aged 0-3 months exhibited long-term effects of using a moisturizer skincare intervention and whether a short-term skin problem resulted in the subsequent development of food allergies or atopic dermatitis (AD) until the age of 2 years.

This was a follow-up of a completed randomized control trial (RCT) of moisturizer skincare for infants aged 0-3 months. A self-reported questionnaire was mailed to the parents of children aged 1-2 years who had participated in the RCT.

Among 155 infants, 14.2% and18.1% had food allergies and AD/eczema until 2 years of age, respectively. No significant difference was noted in food allergies or AD between the group that received moisturizer skincare intervention and the control group. Whereas, food allergies until 2years of age were significantly associated with short-term (4-7 days) and long-term (more than 7 days) body skin problems occurring in the first 3 months of life, a family history of ADand the time of starting complementary food. High value of face transepidermal water loss at 3 months of age was also associated with food allergies. Moreover, a short duration of severe diaper dermatitis during the first 3 months, a family history of AD, and being male were significantly associated with AD/eczema until the age of 2 years.

Hence, after adjusting for family history of AD, short-term skin problem in the first 3 months of life was significantly associated with the development of food allergies or AD/eczema until the age of 2 years. It was concluded that the prevention or prompt treatment of skin problems in newborns is essential for preventing future allergic diseases.

Source: Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology. 2019 Nov 26;15:74. doi: 10.1186/s13223-019-0385-7.