It is very common for infants to develop a variety of rashes during their first year of life. According to Dr. Nina O'Connor, lead author of "Newborn Skin Part I. Common Rashes" published in the January 2008 issue of "American Family Physician," rashes in infants can be caused by bacterial, fungal or viral infections, as well as allergic reactions or normal physiological changes to the skin. In some cases, the cause of the rash is unknown. Fortunately, most infant skin rashes are not harmful and will resolve without medical treatment.
Erythema Toxicum
Erythema toxicum is a common rash in newborns that often develops on the second or third day after birth. The rash resembles mosquito bites. Erythema toxicum goes away in as little as a few days, but in some infants it can last weeks. Erythema toxicum does not require medical treatment. The etymology of the rash is not known.
Acne Neonatorum
Acne neonatorum is also known as neonatal acne. Neonatal acne commonly occurs in infants between two and four weeks after birth, but it may be present in some infants when they are born. This rash is typically located on the cheeks, nose and forehead and looks like small red bumps or pimples. The rash often results from the exposure to maternal hormones. Typically, acne neonatorum does not require any treatment and will clear up within four months.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis, or cradle cap, is a yellow scaly, crusty rash that is found on an infant's scalp and, in some cases, in the folds of the baby's skin. Cradle cap is an innocuous condition that typically resolves after six months. Regular shampooing, massaging mineral oil into the scalp and brushing with a soft infant brush may help, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Diaper Dermatitis
Diaper rash is a bright red rash that affects the skin that is covered by a diaper. It is caused by irritation from prolonged exposure to urine or stool in the diaper, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Frequent diaper changes, washing the diaper region, using a diaper cream to protect the skin and allowing your infant to go without a diaper for brief periods of time may help prevent diaper rash. Infants with sensitive skin can develop diaper rash very quickly. In some cases, diaper rash may be caused by a fungal infection known as candidiasis, a bacterial infection, or an allergic reaction to the diapers. If an infant's diaper dermatitis does not go away, contacting his pediatrician for further treatment options is advised.
Miliaria
Miliaria is commonly referred to as either heat rash or prickly heat. Heat rash is common in infants living in hot, humid climates. According to the National Institutes of Health, miliaria occurs when the ducts that lead to the sweat glands become blocked. Heat rash can appear as red bumps or clear fluid-filled blister-like bumps. Keeping the baby cool and dry can help prevent or treat heat rash.
Medical Treatment
If a rash develops on an infant that is unusually persistent or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or vomiting, immediate medical consultation is advised.
