Babies are notoriously rashy. Some of the rashes babies get itch and cause discomfort, while others don't appear to bother the baby at all. Causes of rashes vary; some may be allergic reactions, while others have unknown sources. In general, however, you shouldn't try to treat a baby's rash with herbs.
Rashes
Many different kinds of rashes can show up on your baby's face. Some, such as eczema, are allergic reactions and can itch. Others look like rashes, but are actually breakouts of baby acne, which can come and go for months. There are even rashes like erythema toxicum, which looks like flea bites all over your baby's face and body; they look awful but don't bother your baby at all.
Causes
Babies have exceedingly sensitive skin, meaning it's easy for them to react to detergents, perfumes, types of cloth, and other irritants in the environment. Further, very young babies still have maternal hormones in their systems, which can lead to rashes and acne. It's the rare baby who makes it through the first year without a facial breakout of some kind, explains Dr. Scott Cohen in his book "Eat, Sleep, Poop." Most resolve on their own, however.
Treatment
If you're concerned about a rash on your baby's face, it's best to see your pediatrician for a diagnosis. Most rashes are harmless and will clear up on their own, which allows you to forgo using any creams or ointments on your infant's delicate skin. Other rashes may require treatment, but it's safest to have a doctor's guidance in helping you to determine which rashes to treat -- and how -- and which to leave alone.
Herbs
The problem with herbal treatments for rashes is twofold. First, there aren't any herbs that have been scientifically proved to work on baby facial rashes. Second, the FDA regulates herbal compounds less vigorously than it does pharmaceutical compounds, per the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994. This means that herbs may not have been tested to be safe for use on babies' skin. Talk to your doctor before using any herbal compound on a baby.
References
- "Eat, Sleep, Poop"; Scott Cohen, M.D.; 2010
- "What To Expect The First Year"; Heidi Murkoff et al; 2009
- FDA: 1994 Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act
