Eczema is extremely common in babies, in fact eczema affects 1 in 5 children under the age of 2. Affected areas range from the elbows and knees to the wrists, ankles and down to the feet and hands. There are many reasons why babies may suffer more from eczema. Factors such as perfumes, chemicals and dyes used in clothing, laundry detergent and skin care products may play a role. External factors such as temperature and weather may also play a part, as well as a genetic predisposition to allergies causing skin irritation.