Many people imagine a baby’s skin to be smooth and flawless, but there are skin conditions that affect a baby’s appearance. Some parents worry about what is normal and what requires treatment. Most babies develop some form of skin rash or acne, which may either be present at birth or develop during the first year. Parents should check with their pediatrician about necessary treatments, but there are several types of skin conditions in a baby that are normal and common.
Neonatal Acne
Some babies are born with acne on the face or body. According to Skinsight, neonatal acne may be caused from some of a mother’s hormones crossing the placenta and affecting the baby’s skin. Its appearance typically looks like small, red bumps or scattered whiteheads. Care of neonatal acne consists of regularly washing the baby’s skin with a mild cleanser. Neonatal acne that does not clear up on its own or that worsens may need a prescription of 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide cream applied topically to the skin or an oral antibiotic.
Cradle Cap
Cradle cap is a condition seen in babies that appears as greasy or flaky areas on the scalp. Also called seborrheic dermatitis, the exact cause of this condition is unknown. Cradle cap may also appear on the forehead or in the eyebrows of a baby. The scaly appearance can form a crust on the scalp underneath the hair. Cradle cap can be prevented by using a soft-bristled brush during bathing to gently exfoliate the area and lift the hair. A physician may need to prescribe special shampoo or cream to use on the baby’s scalp until the condition has cleared.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash, also known as diaper dermatitis, is a common skin condition seen in infants. There are various causes of diaper rash, and its source is what determines treatment. According to Rush University Medical Center, diaper rash most frequently occurs in babies who are between 9 and 12 months of age. Common causes of diaper rash include a yeast infection with the fungus Candida albicans; inflammation from urine or stool; allergic eczema or a bacterial infection. The condition appears as pink or red bumps in the diaper area that may extend onto the thighs. Treatment includes regular cleansing of the skin and frequent diaper changes. Rashes caused by fungus or bacteria need a prescription topical cream for treatment.
Infant Eczema
Eczema is a type of rash found on infants that causes red, patchy areas that may itch. Eczema can be found on any part of the body but is commonly located on the face and extremities. The most common type of this rash is atopic eczema, which can be triggered by contact with allergens. Some babies who have food allergies or sensitivities to soaps or fragrances may have symptoms of atopic eczema. It is a chronic condition that causes occasional flare-ups with exposure to these allergens. Eczema can be treated by keeping a baby’s skin clean and dry, as well as avoiding contact with known triggers that will cause a rash.
Erythema Toxicum
A common rash condition that typically appears right after birth is called erythema toxicum. While its appearance does look like a skin infection, it is a normal and common rash that is not associated with illness. Erythema toxicum appears as a series of red bumps that may have a white or yellow center. It can appear anywhere on a baby’s body but most frequently occurs on the face, chest and extremities. The condition typically clears on its own and does not call for medical treatment.
