What causes red hot cheeks on babies?

Red cheeks in babies

Babies often have red cheeks, especially when they are crying, excited, or just plain hot. This is because their skin is thinner than adults' skin and they have more blood vessels near the surface. So, when they get flushed, the blood vessels show through the skin more easily.

Red cheeks are usually not a cause for concern. However, if your baby's cheeks are red, swollen, and warm to the touch, they could have an infection. If this is the case, you should take them to see their doctor.

Some of the most common causes of red cheeks in babies include:

* Temperature fluctuations. When a baby is exposed to cold or hot temperatures, their cheeks may turn red. This is because the blood vessels in the skin dilate to try to regulate their body temperature.

* Crying. Crying can cause a baby's cheeks to turn red because it increases their heart rate and blood pressure.

* Excitement. When a baby is excited or happy, their cheeks may turn red because they are releasing adrenaline.

* Infection. If a baby has an infection, their cheeks may turn red, swollen, and warm to the touch. This is because the inflammation from the infection causes the blood vessels in the skin to dilate.

Here are some things you can do to help prevent red cheeks in your baby:

* Keep your baby's skin cool and dry. Dress them in loose-fitting, breathable clothing and avoid overheating them.

* Give your baby plenty of fluids. This will help to keep them hydrated and prevent their skin from becoming dry.

* Avoid using harsh soaps, detergents, and other skin care products. These products can irritate your baby's skin and make them more likely to get red cheeks.

* If your baby's cheeks are red, swollen, and warm to the touch, take them to see their doctor. They may have an infection that needs to be treated.