Expect Skin Irregularities, Spots, and Rashes
There is nothing quite like the soft, smooth skin of a baby. At the same time, there is nothing quite like an irritable baby who is bothered by diaper rash, cradle cap, or another skin condition. Although your baby is perfect, their skin may not always be. Many babies are prone to various skin irritations during the first months of life. Here is what is important to know and what you can do.
Newborns Are Prone to Rashes
Most baby rashes are harmless and usually go away on their own. Although baby skin care may seem complicated, in reality you only need to know three basic things:
• which skin conditions can be treated at home,
• which require care prescribed by a doctor,
• how to prevent skin problems from developing.
How to Prevent Diaper Rash
If your baby’s skin around the diaper area becomes red, it is most likely diaper rash. The most common causes are:
• diapers that are too tight,
• wet diapers left on for too long,
• unsuitable laundry detergents, diapers, or baby wipes.
You can help prevent diaper rash if you:
• allow your baby’s skin to “breathe” as often as possible by leaving the diaper off,
• change diapers as soon as they become wet.
If irritation does occur, gently wash the area with warm water or a damp cloth and apply a zinc oxide cream.
What to Do About Pimples and Whiteheads
Baby “acne” is not the same as teenage acne. Research suggests that it may be related to yeast rather than excess oil. Small pimples on a baby’s nose or cheeks usually disappear on their own within a few weeks, so no treatment or lotions are needed.
Birthmarks
More than one in ten babies have birthmarks. They are not always inherited—some are present at birth, while others appear during the first months of life. In most cases, birthmarks are harmless and do not require treatment, but if a birthmark worries you, consult your pediatrician.
Eczema
Eczema is an itchy, red rash that can appear as a reaction to irritants. It is more common in children with a family history of asthma, allergies, or atopic dermatitis. Eczema often appears on the face, later becoming thicker, drier, and flaky. It can also occur on the elbows, chest, arms, or behind the knees.
Treatment involves identifying and avoiding triggers, using mild soaps and detergents, and applying moisturizers in moderation. More severe eczema requires prescription medications.
Dry Skin
Peeling or dry skin in newborns is common, especially if the baby was born slightly overdue. The skin underneath the peeling layer is usually completely healthy. If dryness does not improve, consult your pediatrician.
Cradle Cap Caused by Excess Oil
Cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) usually appears during the first months of life. It looks like flaky, waxy, sometimes red patches on the scalp, eyebrows, around the nose, or behind the ears. Your pediatrician may recommend a special shampoo, baby oil, or other suitable treatments.
Heat Rash
Heat rash appears as small pink or red patches and usually develops on areas that tend to sweat, such as the neck, armpits, diaper area, or skin folds. Treatment simply involves a cool, dry environment and loose clothing. Even in winter, babies can overheat, so dressing them in layers is important.
Why Babies Do Not Need Powder
Talc or cornstarch powders can be inhaled and may cause breathing problems, so they are not recommended for use on baby skin.
White Bumps (Milia)
About half of all newborns develop tiny white bumps called milia. They are caused by blocked oil glands and usually disappear on their own within a few weeks without any treatment.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections often appear after a baby has taken antibiotics. In the mouth, they look like milky patches; in the diaper area, they appear as a bright red rash with small bumps. In such cases, it is important to consult a pediatrician, who will prescribe appropriate antifungal medication.
Laundry Tips
Wash everything that comes into contact with your baby’s skin using gentle, fragrance-free detergents—from bedding and blankets to towels and even your own clothes. This helps reduce the risk of irritation.
Yellow Skin and Jaundice
Jaundice appears as a yellowish tint to the skin and the whites of the eyes. It usually develops 2–3 days after birth and typically resolves within 1–2 weeks. If your baby appears very yellow, consult a doctor.
Sun Protection
Baby skin is very sensitive to sunlight. During the first six months, babies should be protected from direct sun exposure. Use clothing, hats, and umbrellas, and apply zinc oxide–based protection to exposed areas.
Bathing and Skin Care
Bathe your baby briefly—about 3–5 minutes—in warm water. Apply a moisturizer immediately after the bath and only then gently pat the skin dry.
Baby Massage
Gentle massage can help calm your baby, improve sleep, and reduce irritability.
When to Call the Pediatrician
If you notice unusual rashes, pus-filled bumps, fever, or lethargy, do not delay and contact your pediatrician.
