Rashes in babies are common. The National Institutes of Health define a rash as a change in color or texture of the skin. Although most baby rashes are not serious and go away on their own, parents should always call a doctor if they are concerned about the rash or are not sure of the cause.
Diapers
Diaper rash is the most common skin problem in infants, according to the National Institutes of Health. The most common type of diaper rash is caused when the urine or feces trapped inside the diaper irritate the skin and turn it bright red. Most regular diaper rashes disappear with at-home treatments, including frequent diaper changing, using diaper cream and keeping the skin dry. However, some babies also get a yeast diaper infection, caused by a yeast called candida. This type of diaper rash looks different from a regular diaper rash. The skin will turn very red, and small red bumps are typically present on the edges of the rash. Parents should call a doctor if they suspect their baby has a yeast diaper infection, as medication is usually needed to treat the condition.
Heat
Although people of all ages can get a heat rash, it is particularly common in babies. When infants are too warm, the sweat may block the pores that lead to the sweat glands and cause a rash of little red bumps or small blisters to appear. The rash usually appears first in the folds of the skin and on parts of the body where clothing fits snugly, such as the chest, neck, stomach, crotch and buttocks, explains the medical advisory board of BabyCenter.com. Parents should see heat rash as a warning sign. The rash itself is not serious, but overheating can lead to serious conditions including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Erythema Toxicum
Erythema toxicum is a common newborn rash, usually appearing in infants between the ages of three days and two weeks, according to the National Institutes of Health. The rash appears as small, yellow or white bumps surrounded by red skin. It usually appears on the middle of the body or the face, but sometimes appears on the upper arms and thighs. Erythema toxicum is a harmless condition, and typically disappears on its own.
Acne
Exposure to the mother's hormones during pregnancy and childbirth may cause acne in babies. Baby acne usually appears as red bumps, but may also appear with white dots in the center. This condition typically occurs when the baby is between two to four weeks in age, but may appear up to age four months. It can last for 12 to 18 months. The Mayo Clinic notes that the best treatment for baby acne is usually to leave it alone and allow it to go away on its own.
Hives
Hives are itchy, swollen welts on the skin. They may appear in different shapes and sizes, but generally are well defined and have a pale, raised center surrounded by a red boarder. Hives usually appear in groups and often appear and disappear in various places on the body. Babies get hives for many reasons. However, they are frequently due to an allergic reaction to insect bites or stings, food or other objects, explains the medical advisory board of BabyCenter.com. Parents should call 911 immediately if the hives occur with respiratory problems or swelling, as this can be a sign of a potentially fatal allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock. Viral infections, sudden temperature changes and some medications also may cause hives.
Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition that causes itchy, scaly, dry and red patches of skin. It is associated with asthma and allergies, but can occur without these conditions as well. Babies with eczema often have family members with the condition, notes the National Institutes of Health. Applying thick lotion several times a day or using hydrocortisone cream on troubled areas may help, but parents concerned about their baby's eczema should contact a doctor for other treatments that may help.
