Skin problems in babies

Skin problems in infants are very common. The outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) is immature in the newborn, which causes the skin to be more susceptible to irritation and illness. Many skin problems are treated with over-the-counter medications and some need a prescription. Regardless of the diagnosis, parents should be aware of symptoms so that appropriate treatment can be started to relieve the child's discomfort.

Eczema is an extremely common skin condition which affects babies, young children and adults of all ages. The severity of eczema can vary from mild to one that causes dreadful itch, discomfort, disfigurement and distress. While there are many different types of eczema, the most common is atopic, which is usually inherited. Atopic eczema sufferers are more prone to developing other allergy-related conditions such as asthma, allergic rhinitis and hay fever.  In the case of babies, eczema can be successfully managed by avoiding allergens, irritants and other triggers. As well as through the application of moisturizing creams and emollients and use of medicated preparations, such as steroid-based ointments and creams.  

Many infants develop crusty, scaly or greasy patches on their scalp soon after birth. The patches may have the appearance of a little skull cap of oily, lumpy or crusty yellowish plaques. They mainly appear on the top of the head, the crown, and the back of the head, behind the ears and sometimes in the eyebrows. It can look a little unsightly at times, but it is harmless. The baby is unaware and untroubled by it, as it is neither itchy nor sore. It is thought the cause of the condition may be influenced by the mother's hormones which still circulate in the baby's bloodstream after birth. The good news is that the condition tends not to last beyond a few months.

Some babies are born with small white bumps on the face, especially the cheeks and nose. These are called milia, and the condition is not painful. It will likely clear up in a few weeks. Heat rash is caused by your baby overheating and sweating too much. The excess sweat clogs their pores and produces a rash. It is usually only a minor ailment, but heat rash is a signal that your baby is getting too hot, which can potentially develop into life-threatening conditions like heat stroke. It is important to cool your baby down; this may involve removing some layers of clothing, moving the child to a cooler place or using a fan or air conditioner to direct a gentle breeze near the baby. A tepid bath, or sponging the baby gently with a wet cloth, and letting them dry off can also help to lower their temperature. 

Erythema toxicum neonatorum:  a skin condition which occurs in more than half of all newborns. It presents as red blotches with little white bumps in the center and it typically occurs within the first few days or weeks. The rash is common on the face and torso, and appears less often on the arms and legs. 

Baby Care Topics: Feeding your baby|What should my baby wear? | Bathing and Washing your Baby | Overcoming sleeping problems in your baby

Your Baby's First Year: Week by Week

You might also like

More Baby Care Topics

Hepatitis B Vaccine
MMR Vaccine
BCG Vaccine
Polio Vaccine
HIB Vaccine 
Typhoid Vaccine
Rota Virus Vaccine

Baby Care: Useful Tips
Ideal weight gain in a New Born Baby
How much sleep does your baby need?
Breast Feeding Techniques
Well Breast Feeding Signs
Bottle Feeding Advantages
How do I store my Breast Milk? 
Which day care center is more comfort?