Babies don't have a perfect complexion all the time. Sometimes rashes, blotches, splotches, spots and bumps mar otherwise super soft skin. Most skin conditions in infants are harmless and will eventually clear up on their own, but parents should contact a doctor if the rash or irritation doesn't seem to be going away after a few days or other symptoms appear such as blisters, fever or open wounds.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash, which presents as red splotches on a baby's butt and genitals, is the most common skin disease in infants, according to MedlinePlus. This disease most often occurs when feces or urine stay in contact with the sensitive skin of a baby's bottom too long. Sometimes, another form of diaper rash caused by the yeast Candida takes hold. This same yeast can cause oral thrush, nipple thrush in breastfeeding mothers and a vaginal yeast infection in women of all ages. Candida rashes may be extremely red in color and small red bumps are visible.
Cradle Cap
According to MayoClinic.com, cradle cap occurs mainly in newborns and looks like crusty or greasy yellow patches on a baby's head. This condition is also called seborrheic dermatitis .Washing the head and gently scrubbing with a soft brush may help clear up cradle cap, but it generally goes away on its own by a baby's third month even without treatment.
Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis creates dry, scaly, itchy patches on the skin. The disease runs in families and babies who get it may also be prone to developing asthma or allergies down the line. Infants who develop eczema typically get it on the face, neck, arms and legs explains Babyzone.
Baby Acne
Baby acne develops within the first month of life, a result of hormones from the mother still in the baby's system. Looking like small red bumps, baby acne typically clears up on its own by the time the infant reaches three months of age. Milia is another condition similar to baby acne, but milia looks like tiny white bumps. Caused by trapped flakes of skin, milia is often present at birth and clears up within a few weeks, according to MayoClinic.com.
Heat Rash
In warm weather, it becomes easy for a baby's sweat glands to get clogged and cause the small red, itchy bumps characteristic of heat rash, explains What to Expect. Treatment for heat rash involves keeping the baby cool and out of sweaty clothes while waiting for the problem to clear up on its own in a week or so.
