Types of Rashes in Babies

Rashes in babies are quite common. There are many types of rashes that can affect the baby; some are harmless and others may be irritating. As a parent, it is up to you to make sure that your baby is comfortable and that the rash is taken care of properly and that means identifying the type of rash.

Infant acne

• There is no rhyme or reason to infant acne, it tends to just appear in some babies. It appears as small red bumps, usually on the baby's face. There is nothing to be done but wait for it to go away on its own.

Diaper Rash

• Diaper rash is very common in babies and can be very irritating or even painful. It occurs in the diaper area and appears red and sometimes swollen. It can be taken care of with over-the-counter diaper rash treatments unless it is consistently recurring, and then it should be seen by a doctor.

Yeast Infection

• A yeast infection occurs mostly in warm, moist areas such as the diaper area and in the folds of skin. It appears red and swollen with a definitive perimeter and may be irritating, itchy or even painful. It should be seen by a doctor and will be taken care of with a prescribed medication.

Miliaria

• Miliaria is also common in babies and occurs when a baby is overheated. It appears most often on the nose as small white bumps. It will clear up on its own.

Cradle Cap

• Cradle cap is very common in babies. It appears on the baby's head as a yellowish or greenish scale. It can be removed by using baby oil to loosen the scales and then gently combing the scales away. It recurs often.

Milia

• Milia consists of small yellow or white bumps that appear on the baby's face or gums. It is caused by a small cyst. It is not contagious and will clear up on its own.