Babies are prone to skin irritation within the first few months after birth. Skin rashes on infants include diaper rash, milia, cradle cap, baby acne, heat rash and baby eczema. Most skin rashes on infants will disappear within a few months but might cause your baby to be uncomfortable and irritable until the unwanted rash goes away. If the rash does not improve over time you should consult your doctor.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash consists of bright red skin on your baby's bottom. This skin rash on your infant is most commonly caused by contact with urine or feces over a long period of time. Treatment for this skin rash consists of airing out the baby's bottom and applying zinc oxide or petroleum jelly to the affected area. If the rash does not improve within a few days or blisters begin to form, you should contact your pediatrician.
Milia
Milia are tiny white bumps that appear on an infants nose, cheeks or chin. Milia is caused from skin flakes becoming trapped near the baby's skin surface. This rash usually disappears within a few weeks. You can treat milia by washing your baby's face with water and a mild soap once a day. You should avoid using lotion or oils.
Cradle Cap
Cradle cap is common in newborns and normally clears up on its own within a few months. Cradle cap is a thick, yellow, crusty or greasy patch on a baby's scalp. You should wash your baby's hair with a mild baby shampoo once a day and loosen the scales with a soft-bristled brush.
Baby Acne
Red or white bumps on your baby's forehead or cheeks may be baby acne. This type of skin rash normally develops within a month after your baby is born and disappears on its own without scarring. You should wash your baby's face once a day with mild soap and water and avoid the use of oils. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should consult your baby's doctor if your child still has this rash after three months of age.
Heat Rash
Fine, clear or red spots on your baby's skin may be a sign of heat rash. This type of skin rash is common in babies during humid and hot weather. To prevent heat rash in hot climates you should dress your baby in cool, lightweight clothing. Heat rash usually disappears on its own.
Baby Eczema
Patches of red, scaly and itchy skin is known as baby eczema. This occurs when your baby is exposed to irritating substances, such as rough fabrics or bubble baths. To treat baby eczema, you should avoid irritants and bathe your baby every other day. After your baby's bath you should dry your baby's skin with gentle pats and use generous amounts of moisturizing cream. Many babies outgrow eczema.
