If you have an eczema-prone baby, you probably read labels on soaps and lotions with the intensity of a scientist examining samples under a microscope. But even the most informed parents often overlook one of the most important skin-contact items of all: the diaper.

Unlike a cream or wash that touches skin briefly, diapers sit against delicate skin 24/7. That means whatever is in them has plenty of time to irritate or inflame sensitive skin.

Here’s what parents should know about the eczema triggers hidden inside many diapers, how they affect the skin barrier and microbiome, and why the clean formulation of Coterie diapers can make a difference.

Why Eczema-Prone Skin Reacts to Harsh Ingredients

Baby skin is already thinner, more absorbent, and more reactive than adult skin. For babies with eczema, the skin barrier is even more fragile. Additives like fragrance, certain preservatives, dyes, or lotion can:

• raise the skin’s pH (disrupting the acid mantle)
• irritate or inflame the skin barrier
• disrupt the microbiome
• increase dryness or itching
• worsen redness or diaper-area flares

Even low levels of these ingredients can be enough to trigger a reaction in sensitive or eczema-prone babies.

Hidden Eczema Triggers in Diapers

1. Fragrance

Artificial fragrance is one of the most common irritants for babies with eczema. And It’s not always just something you can smell—it can be dozens of ingredients grouped under one word on a label.

Why it’s a problem:Fragrances are known allergens and can weaken an already sensitive skin barrier.

The Coterie difference:No added fragrance. Ever.

2. Lotions or “Skin-Conditioning” Additives

Some diapers include a lotion-coated top sheet meant to feel soft or soothing. For eczema-prone babies, this can backfire.

Why it’s a problem:Lotions can contain fragrance, preservatives, or occlusive ingredients that disrupt the microbiome or irritate inflamed skin.

The Coterie difference:No added lotion. Just clean, gentle materials.

3. Harsh Chemicals + Processing Agents

Even if they don’t appear on the label, diapers may include:

• chlorine from bleaching processes
• latex or rubber
• optical brighteners
• alcohol
• parabens

These ingredients can create irritation over time, weakening the barrier and triggering eczema flares.

The Coterie difference: Made without chlorine, latex, rubber, alcohol, parabens, or optical brighteners.

4. Dyes and Colorants

Dyes can be allergenic for some babies and may rub against areas already prone to eczema.

The Coterie difference:No added dyes in areas that come in contact with your baby’s skin.

How Coterie Diapers Support Sensitive, Eczema-Prone Skin

Coterie’s approach is simple: take out anything unnecessary and maximize gentleness.

Coterie diapers are:

• Made without fragrance, parabens, chlorine, latex, lotion, rubber, alcohol, or optical brighteners
• Hypoallergenic
• Dermatologist-tested
• Made with soft, clothing-grade materials that minimize friction

Together, these choices help protect the skin barrier and maintain the delicate balance eczema-prone skin needs.

What Parents Can Do to Reduce Irritation from Hidden Triggers

Pairing gentle diapers with gentle routines makes a big difference:

• Choose fragrance-free, lotion-free diapers
• Use pH-balanced, fragrance-free wipes
• Keep diaper changes frequent to reduce moisture exposure
• Give baby some diaper-free time to air out
• Use a simple, fragrance-free skincare routine
• Keep bathtime short and use lukewarm, not hot, water