Common Skin Problems in Babies
A baby's skin is well-known for it softness and sweet smell. However, babies are prone to a wide variety of skin conditions and rashes that may cause discomfort or just be painful to look at. Some skin conditions are common because of the hormones associated with being in the womb, others because of environmental factors or illnesses. Your pediatrician should be able to reassure you or offer treatment options, if necessary.
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Baby Acne
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Baby acne is a very common skin condition. Some babies are born with small pimples on their bodies, and others develop them in the weeks following birth. Baby acne generally clears up in a few weeks, or a few months at most.
Milia
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Some babies are born with small white bumps on the face, especially the cheeks and nose. These are called milia, and the condition is not painful. It will likely clear up in a few weeks.
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Cradle Cap
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Cradle cap is scaly, crusty skin on a baby's head, eyebrows and ears that typically develops in the first few months of life. It generally will go away well before the child turns 1.
Diaper Rash
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Many babies develop diaper rash, most commonly caused because the skin is wet or moist. Over-the-counter diaper creams will normally clear up the rash and help prevent recurrences, but sometimes a prescription may be needed. Be sure to change your baby regularly to help prevent diaper rash.
Eczema
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An itchy rash on a baby's skin is called eczema, or atopic dermatitis. The rash can be triggered by many things, including moisture or saliva around the mouth, food allergies and sensitivity to soaps or detergents. Unless the triggers are removed from the environment, it typically will recur.
Rashes
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Many illnesses fairly common in babies--including roseola, scarlet fever and fifth disease--sometimes include a rash as a symptom.
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