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Common Skin Rashes in Babies

Babies are prone to many kinds of rashes. Most are not a sign of serious illness, although the rash itself may look alarming. Some rashes are caused by irritants on a babies sensitive skin, some are caused by hormones, some have unknown causes and a few are due to illness. It isn't always easy to determine whether a rash is nothing to worry about or if it is a symptom of something serious. Whichever rash symptoms your baby may have, bring her to a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.

  1. Most Common

    • According to an article at healthvisitor.com, "Common rashes in babies from birth to six months," the most common rashes are Milia, Seborrheric dermatitis and eczema.
      According to the same article, milia is characterized by tiny pale spots on the face and neck. Seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by small bumps with flaking skin on the neck and scalp. Eczema is characterized by raised red patches, which can occur anywhere.

    Newborn Acne

    • Newborn acne is also common. It doesn't usually last long, rarely needs treatment and is not concerning.

    Heat Rash

    • This is usually an itchy rash--your baby may fidget or cry with this. Heat rash usually occurs on the torso, but it may be on the neck and in skin folds. Heat rash is made up of very small bumps.

    Diaper Rash

    • Diaper rash is usually red and, of course, occurs where the diaper covers. It occurs because the baby's sensitive skin is irritated by the wetness and the byproducts of his waste. Keeping a baby clean and dry as possible is the best way to prevent it. There are many ointments for it, when this cannot be avoided, and most babies will indeed have diaper rash at some point.

    Erythema Toxicum

    • This is common to newborns and usually appears within the first week. According to VHI Healthcare, this rash looks like blotchy patches with white pustules in the center.

    Warning

    • Most rashes in babies are not serious and will go away on their own or are easily treated. However, you should take your baby into the doctor for a confirming diagnosis. If your baby is ill, or if the rash is dark colored or appears to be beneath the skin, the rash may be a sign of a serious infection. In these cases, take your child in for medical help immediately.

      Yeast infections can resemble diaper rash. If you are treating the baby for diaper rash and it doesn't go away in a few days, speak to your doctor.

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