For first-time parents, the physical appearance of a newborn child can be shocking. Babies never come out looking like the newborn stand-in babies on television. In addition to funny shaped heads and purplish-red lips, fingers and other parts, newborns do not have soft, creamy skin when they first arrive in the world.
Vernix Caseosa
Newborns may look like they are covered in something whitish in color when they are first born, which may seem to shed off later. According to KidsHealth, this "thick, pasty white material" is called vernix caseosa and is "made up of the fetus' shed skin cells and skin gland secretions." This layer will mostly all wash off when your newborn receives his first bath.
Skin Flaking
The top layer of your newborn's skin will flake off within the first two weeks after birth. Some infants will even have flaking skin immediately after birth, especially if they are overdue. This skin flaking, or what looks like peeling, is completely normal and requires no special care. It will come off naturally, and you do not need to treat it with lotion or baby oil.
Skin Cracking
As your newborn's initial layer of skin flakes away, the new layer underneath may be somewhat sensitive. Your newborn previously lived in an environment of fluid and now her skin is exposed to the dry air. If you notice cracking of your baby's skin around certain areas, it is most likely the new exposed, sensitive layer of skin. You may especially notice cracking around the ankle and wrist areas. The skin will naturally smooth out and heal on its own, but you can put unscented cream on it. Lotions should be avoided, since they often have some alcohol in them, which can make the cracking worse.
Eczema
If your child has a red, scaly, itchy rash on any area of his body, he could have eczema. However, many skin conditions, such as the flaking, cracking and even sometimes blotchiness, are normal in newborns. Treatments for infant eczema often include warm baths with certain oils or other skin care products and dressing your baby in cotton-only clothing. You will also want to trim your child's nails regularly to keep them from scraping or scratching his skin, whether on purpose or accidentally.
Expert Insight
Initial flaking of your baby's skin is natural, not worrisome. However, when in doubt, always contact your baby's physician. There are many resources on the Internet and in books, but nothing is as accurate as a live consultation with a doctor. Do not try to diagnose your baby on your own. Consult with your doctor if you are worried about your baby's skin and only treat through medical guidance.
