Infant Rashes – Causes & Treatment
Babies are often seen with tiny pimple-like rashes on their faces. It is very common in newborns and continues to be visible on and off till their first year. This article shall help understand what each rash looks like, how different are they, and when to meet the doctor.
1. Baby Milia – White Spots
Tiny white or yellow bumps visible on your baby’s nose, cheeks, and forehead in the first few weeks of birth is called Baby Milia. This generally appears equally on each side of the face and is a result of blocked pores. Babies can also develop milia in the mouth which is called Epstein Pearls.
Treatment: Once the pores open up these whitish or yellowish pimples like rashes, they clear up naturally. No treatment is necessary for this.
2. Newborn Acne – Red Dots
Around 20 -25 percent of newborns are affected by Neonatal acne. These are small red pimples that develop around 2-6 weeks of age but some babies are born with it. These generally develop on the baby’s face but breakouts can also appear on the chest, upper back, neck, and scalp.
Treatment: Newborn Acne also tends to clear up on its own without treatment after a few weeks or months. It does not leave any scar and hence not a matter of worry.
3. Infantile Acne – Red Dots
Infantile Acne is similar to newborn acne and appears as small red pimples. These are less common than newborn acne and appear on babies between 3 to 12 months of age or sometimes post 6 weeks. Due to its similarity between eczema and other skin infections it is important to rule out these conditions before treatment.
Treatment: Infantile acne generally clear up within 6-12 months after it appears. It’s still advised to be diagnosed to rule out other infections and hence please visit a dermatologist.
Check the below useful links from our blog
- White Patches in Kids face – Reason, Care, and Remedy
- Cradle Crap – Symptoms, Cause & Remedies
- Top 10 Skin Care Tips for Healthy & Younger Looking Skin
- Chickenpox in Babies & Kids – Symptoms, Care, Food & Prevention
- 8 Best SPF Creams for Babies and Kids in India
When to See a Doctor?
As explained most rashes are harmless and clear on their own. But sometimes rashes may be severe and may be symptoms of some underlying health conditions. Check for the symptoms and visit a doctor –
Baby Skin Care during Rashes
1. While rashes are normal, obvious, and harmless we need to avoid certain things to make it worse for the baby.
2. Avoid rubbing affected areas and use a soft cloth to wipe or clean the skin.
3. Avoid oily or greasy skincare products.
4. Bathe or wipe the baby with lukewarm water.
5. Avoid using Baby Powder.
6. Wipe and care skin folds to avoid moisture getting trapped.
7. Allow the skin to breathe once a while, maybe twice daily.
8. Overdressing may develop excess heat and underdressing may take away moisture from the baby’s skin. So dress in simple cotton fabrics.
9. If any medications are suggested by the doctor ensure to follow it and avoid home remedies as much as possible.
10. Finally, do not fret about this common problem but take measures to keep your baby safe and happy.
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