One of the biggest concerns for parents, especially new moms, is noticing a rash or skin issue on their baby. Despite their reputation for soft, flawless skin, babies often develop various skin conditions that can cause worry. Since skin is one of the first indicators of health, it’s important to understand what these rashes may mean.
In this post, we’ll explore common baby skin rashes, what causes them, and how to manage or treat them. Read and share this to help not just yourself, but other moms too. ❤️
A rash is swelling or irritation of the skin, often appearing red, bumpy, scaly, or itchy. Sometimes, it may be accompanied by fever or be a sign of an allergic reaction that needs immediate medical attention.
Diaper Rash: Redness and bumps in the diaper area caused by prolonged exposure to wet or soiled diapers, or reaction to a new product (e.g., wipes or detergent).
Eczema: Also called atopic dermatitis, eczema presents as dry, red, scaly patches, often on the face, elbows, or knees. It can be triggered by genetics or allergies.
Drool Rash: Caused by saliva, usually around the mouth, chin, or chest during heavy drooling, especially while teething.
Food Reaction Rash: Hives or other rashes following the consumption of a new food, often accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea—may indicate a food allergy.
Erythema Toxicum: Red splotches with yellow-white bumps, common in newborns. Clears on its own within a week.
Baby Acne: Small red or white bumps on the face, typically on the cheeks and forehead. Appears within a few weeks of birth and resolves without treatment.
Milia: Tiny white or yellow bumps on the nose, chin, or cheeks. Harmless and typically disappear within 2–3 weeks.
Miliaria (Heat Rash): Small red bumps or blisters caused by overheating, often found in skin folds.
Cradle Cap: Scaly patches on the scalp, possibly extending to neck, ears, or diaper area. Can be managed with gentle washing or special shampoo.
Scabies: Caused by microscopic mites. Look for small bumps or burrow tracks, especially between fingers or on palms and soles. Highly contagious.
Impetigo: Round red rash, usually on the nose, mouth, or ears. Can form blisters and crust over. Caused by bacteria and is contagious.
Ringworm: Red, scaly, circular patches. On the scalp, it may lead to hair loss. Caused by fungus—not worms—and is contagious.
Roseola: Pink rash that appears on the trunk after a fever. Caused by a virus and common in babies under age 2.