All babies, at some point in their first few months of life, develop a rash. It may be caused by the weather, teething, or simply the baby’s delicate skin reacting to an irritant. Sometimes they come on quickly and are gone within a day or two; at other times, they linger for weeks. They can be alarming to parents, but most are harmless and will go away with time and care. In some cases, however, a rash might indicate something more serious that should be treated by a pediatrician.
Here are common newborn rashes and what you can do about them.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash causes redness and irritation in the diaper area. It is one of the most common skin conditions in babies. This rash can cause extreme discomfort for your baby, and it is often caused by wet or infrequently changed diapers. The best way to treat diaper rash is to change your baby’s diaper frequently, allow them to go without a diaper when possible, use mild soaps or wipes, and apply a barrier cream or ointment.Eczema
A lot of infants develop eczema. This is a chronic condition that causes red, itchy skin resulting from an allergic reaction. The exact cause of eczema remains unknown, but it occurs more often in children with allergies or asthma. Eczema can be found on the knees, scalp, ankles, elbows, and neck.Baby Acne
Don’t worry if your newborn’s face gets a little red — baby acne is very common. Many babies develop red bumps on the face, neck, and even chest right after birth. These may be filled with fluid or pus, and they may hurt a bit. They usually clear up within a few weeks without treatment.Neonatal Acne
These pimples, which usually appear on the cheeks, are caused by a yeast inflammation on the skin from the pregnancy. They should clear up within weeks or months without treatment. If they don’t disappear, then consult your baby’s doctor, who might recommend an anti-fungal cream.Milia
These tiny white bumps often appear on a newborn’s cheeks, chin or nose. They’re caused by small skin in the skin pores and usually disappear after a few weeks without treatment. Don’t try to remove them yourself, as you could damage your baby’s delicate skin.