Rashes are quite common on baby's soft, delicate skin, which can certainly be worrisome for parents. There are many different types of rashes and reasons why they occur, but the National Library of Medicine, or NLM, notes that very few of them are serious. Knowing the symptoms of common rashes in babies can help you determine what's wrong with your sweet little one's rashy skin, and whether you might want to put in a call to your pediatrician's office.
Diaper Rash
Baby's sensitive little booty is awfully susceptible to diaper rash, which strikes when a dirty diaper is left on too long. After a long nap or a full night's sleep, baby's bottom might be sprinkled with a red rash, or areas of swollen, tender and red skin, says BabyCenter. You may notice that cleaning the diaper area is uncomfortable for baby, as diaper rash can be painful and the skin is sensitive. A simple diaper rash can be easily treated by letting air get to baby's bottom, says the NLM. Keep diapers clean, and apply a diaper rash cream or ointment to baby's sore bottom.
Baby Acne
Mommy's crazy hormones before and during delivery can lead to baby acne, which is very common in new babies. Acne appears as tiny red pimples on baby's face, and usually shows up any time between birth and age 4 weeks, says BabyCenter. But, baby acne can strike baby's skin as late as 4 months old. The NLM suggests just washing baby's face with water and gentle cleanser at bath time.
Eczema
This skin condition is characterized by dry skin. Baby's face, head, knees, elbows and other areas may appear flaky, red and dry, says BabyCenter. The NLM notes that patches of eczema may also itch. Some babies' eczema-ridden skin may be bumpy, with fluid oozing from the rash. Eczema often strikes babies with family members who have asthma, allergies or eczema---but, not always. Keeping the skin moisturized can help to alleviate eczema, and it will often disappear as the baby grows older.
Cradle Cap
Cradle cap appears as a rash on a baby's scalp, and causes thick, greasy flakes, says the NLM. Cradle cap is also called seborrheic dermatitis, and it only affects the scalp---typically by the age of 3 months. Cradle cap generally clears up on its own by the time baby is about 8 months old. Gently remove flakes from baby's scalp with a soft brush and a little baby shampoo.
Heat Rash
If baby's skin breaks out in a red, bumpy rash or blisters and she has recently been exposed to heat, the NLM notes that heat rash could be the culprit. Babies can't excrete sweat, which means that their sweat instead builds up beneath the skin---resulting in heat rash. Just keep baby cool and dry, and you should see the rash disappear.
Hives
Hives are red, itchy welts that can appear all over baby's tiny body. Hives occur for an unknown cause, so these red spots warrant a conversation with your child's pediatrician, recommends the NLM. Hives can persist for weeks, and an antihistamine may be needed to keep baby comfortable and alleviate itchiness.
