Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Common Baby Rashes

The smile of a newborn baby excites mom and dad. But some newborns won’t smile at an early stage of life. That’s normal since their facial muscles are not yet fully developed. However, if babies are already crying too much because of skin rashes or allergies, that is already a problem.

Some babies are born with flawless skin but not all babies are like that. There are quite a number of babies with skin rashes. Some articles would reveal that this is one reaction of the newborn’s skin upon exposure outside the mother’s womb.

Here is a list of newborn rashes that you need to consider:

1.       Baby Acne or Neonatal Acne
Baby acne or neonatal acne is just like pimples on an adult’s face. Some researchers said that this neonatal acne is a result of maternal hormones. But this baby pimple will last for several weeks. Treatment is not required. It will be gone, in time.

2.       Baby Dandruff
Baby dandruff appears on the baby’s scalp and even on the face and neck. It may appear like an adult dandruff on the scalp but it is quite reddish on the face and neck. It is very itchy for the babies. Some doctors said that it will just come off in several weeks. But for those parents who would like to really make sure, you could always go check on some creams which will make it go away but of course with the advice of the pedia or dermatologist.

3.       Dry, peeling skin
Dry, peeling skin is normal for newborns.

4.       Jaundice
Jaundice is a medical condition where there is yellowing of the eyes and skin of a baby. It happens when babies’ liver are slightly immature.

5.       Mongolian spots
Mongolian spots are common to babies with dark skin. It is flat and gray in color, more like a bruise. It can be small or large. These are harmless and would just fade away.

6.       Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition. It is the inflammation of the skin characterized by red and itchy formation of scaly patches that may leak fluid. It could often be seen on babies’ face, chest, arms, and legs and behind the knees. The doctor has some gentle creams for the babies if this is the case.

7.       Cradle Cap
Cradle cap is a greasy, yellowish crust that appears on the scalp. It may include red, irritating rash on the babies’ face, behind the ears and neck. The doctors will tell you on what to do and what creams to put if this is the case.

8.       Prickly Heat
Prickly heat is like a red bump. It happens on areas which babies often sweat like the neck, armpit and diaper area. Just keep the area dry and clean to avoid this.

9.       Fungal Infection
Fungal infection is also known as candidiasis. On the baby’s tongue will appear like dried milk only it cannot be scraped off like the milk. On the diaper area, it looks like an intense red rash. There are antifungal creams which are recommended by doctors.

10.   Milia
Milia are white bumps. It appears on the baby’s face like nose, chin and cheeks. Just use a gentle soap that is good for babies.

If you have other concerns, you can always research on the internet on the types of rashes that newborns experience including the causes and the treatment. But it is still better to get a health professional’s opinion like Pedia or Dermatologist as they know better.

That’s it for now. Have a great day!

References:
Encarta Dictionaries