The Most Common Baby Skin Conditions and How to Treat Them
Your baby’s skin is incredibly sensitive and can be irritated by a number of things. From the clothes they wear to the temperature of their environment, they can develop irritations quickly and regularly. Knowing the signs and symptoms of the most common skin conditions and how to deal with them can help you provide relief for your baby as soon as possible.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash is an unavoidable skin condition your little one will deal with more than once. Diaper rash is caused by your child sitting in a dirty diaper for too long and appears as a bright red patch on their bottom or genitals. Making sure to properly dry them after changes and applying baby powder can prevent this rash and a quality ointment or even a more natural option like coconut oil can treat it.
Baby Acne
A mother’s hormones are heightened during pregnancy and your baby is exposed to them during their time in utero, which can result in tiny red or white pimples on their face. Cleanse the area with a gentle soap once a day and the acne should clear up on its own. Do not apply any topical treatments without a doctor’s recommendation.
Intertrigo
Check your baby’s skin folds for this rash, which can be red and even weepy, caused by a build up of moisture in that area. Make sure your little one stays as dry as possible of bathwater, sweat and drool for prevention. A barrier cream, an anti fungal cream or baby powder can be used to help with this problem.
Miliaria/Prickly Heat
Tiny red bumps on your child’s body are a common result of overheating. Change them into cool clothes and get them indoors and out of the heat and the rash will go away on its own.
Cradle Cap
If scales that are thick, scaly and yellow or greasy in appearance show up on your child’s head, that’s cradle cap. A gentle shampoo and some mineral oil or petroleum jelly can help you loosen and clear up the scales. Then a soft bristle brush, similar to the ones used by the hospital can help you to remove the flakes. If these scales are present anywhere else on the body, it’s known as seborrhea.
Eczema
A red, itchy rash that can dry and crack the skin, eczema can be caused by anything from the weather, to allergies and clothing. If you or your spouse has eczema, that can also be a factor. Try bathing your child every other or every third day to prevent overdrying and never skip moisturizing.
Taking an overall natural and gentle approach to your child’s skin is the best way to avoid these common baby skin conditions. From the detergent and fabric softener that cleans their clothes (check what you are using and buy the mildest ones available) to the temperature of their room at night, taking these extra steps can prevent skin issues that can make your baby uncomfortable. And as ever, if you are concerned about your baby’s skin problems, then consult your pediatrician, as there may be specialist ointments which will help your baby’s, particular condition.
