Babies encounter many skin problems during the first months to years of their lives. Many will be outgrown, while a few may persist into adulthood. It's important to remember that even though your baby may have common skin problems, he may sometimes need a health care provider's intervention to completely resolve the issue. If you feel you've done all you can and your baby is still showing symptoms of his skin problem, contact your pediatrician.
Cradle Cap
A common babyhood ailment, cradle cap appears as yellow, thick, crusty patches on the baby's scalp. Cradle cap is not harmful or permanent and typically clears up on its own; it does not cause the baby any irritation or discomfort. Until then, wash your baby's hair daily with a mild soap and use a soft bristled brush to brush her hair and scalp gently. This will help decrease the flakiness during the day. Avoid introducing too many skin products to your baby, and introduce each product you do use individually over a few days. Babies can have allergies to even mild baby soaps; introducing each new product one at a time and over time will help you to determine which product your child is allergic to if she develops allergy symptoms.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash is practically a right of passage for most babies. Characterized by bright red, inflamed patches on the diaper area, diaper rash is common but can get out of control and cause problems. Diaper rash is likely caused by contact between the skin and urine or feces for too long--keep in mind every baby will have a different tolerance to the exposure. Some babies will need to be changed within a few moments of a messy diaper to avoid a diaper rash, while others can go longer in between changes. Once a diaper rash is set in motion, frequently change your baby's diaper--thoroughly washing the bottom area each time, use barrier creams and let your baby spend a few minutes a couple times a day without a diaper to allow the area to dry out a bit. Contact your health care provider if your baby's diaper rash begins to bleed, blister or is difficult to get under control.
Baby Eczema
Eczema, also common during the baby years, appears as red, scaly, itchy skin that may ooze and crust over. Your baby's skin may seem dry overall as well. There may be a genetic component that causes baby eczema. It is also likely that environmental factors contribute greatly. Try to avoid extreme temperatures, irritating substances such as rough fabrics on clothing and sheets as well as soaps--even mild, baby soaps can be culprits--detergents and lotions. Bathing your baby every day is not necessary and may lead to dryer skin, especially in the winter months. Bathe him every few days, being sure to dry his skin with patting motions, not rubbing. Use unscented moisturizers on his skin after bathing and when needed. Contact your health care provider if your baby seems increasingly more uncomfortable or there are signs of infection.
