Prevention

It's not possible to prevent epidermolysis bullosa. But you can take steps to help prevent blisters and infection.

• Handle your child gently. Your infant or child needs cuddling, but be very gentle. To pick up your child, place him or her on soft material, such as cotton, and support under the buttocks and behind the neck. Don't lift your child from under his or her arms.
• Take special care with the diaper area. If your child wears diapers, remove the elastic bands and avoid cleansing wipes. Line the diaper with a nonstick dressing or spread it with a thick layer of zinc oxide paste.
• Keep the home environment cool. Set your thermostat so that your home remains cool and the temperature remains steady.
• Keep the skin moist. Gently apply lubricants, such as petroleum jelly.
• Dress your child in soft clothes. Use soft clothing that's simple to get on and off. It may help to remove labels and put clothing on seam-side out to minimize scratching. Try sewing foam pads into the lining of clothing by elbows, knees and other pressure points. Use soft special shoes, if possible.
• Prevent scratching. Trim your child's fingernails regularly. Consider putting mittens on him or her at bedtime to help prevent scratching and infection.
• Encourage your child to be active. As your child grows, encourage him or her to be involved in activities that don't cause skin injury. Swimming is a good option. For children with mild forms of epidermolysis bullosa, they can protect their skin by wearing long pants and sleeves for outdoor activities.
• Cover hard surfaces. For example, place sheepskin on car seats and line the bathing tub with a thick towel.