Learn more about skin problems and care for infants

Babies who appear on TV, in magazines or online have perfect skin. In reality, many newborn babies and infants develop rashes and other issues. These skin conditions may concern parents and require care and attention. Our Plano pediatricians are here to provide help and information for parents and caregivers with this primer about newborn and infant skin problems and care.

Exploring skin problems and care in infants

Babies don’t need a full bath each day. Simply wash their face, hands and feet with a nice, warm cloth in between baths. Pay close attention to keeping the skin clean and dry every time after every diaper change. When giving a bath, plain water and mild, unscented soap are all parents need to keep babies clean and happy.

However, sometimes, despite parents’ best efforts, babies develop skin issues. In almost every instance, infants’ skin issues improve with home care. If problems persist, it’s best to consult our Plano pediatricians about skin problems and care.

Skin inflammation or fungal infections can cause diaper rash

Many babies suffer from bright red, inflamed diaper rash on their bottom at one time or another. In most cases, exposure to feces and urine causes the rash, but in some cases, a fungal infection is the culprit.

Parents and caregivers should change babies’ diapers as soon as they become wet or dirty. If a rash appears, apply a thick layer of cream or ointment. If the rash persists or blisters, consult our pediatricians.

Cradle cap is a common infection on the scalp

Cradle cap occurs on babies’ scalps as a thick, scaly rash. It can be crusty or greasy. Parents should wash babies’ hair with a mild shampoo and use a brush with soft bristles to loosen the scaly patches. A bit of mineral oil or petroleum jelly applied to the scalp a few minutes before washing hair also helps.

Certain rashes cause little bumps and splotches that alarm parents

There are other common skin issues that frighten parents. However, in most cases, problems disappear on their own or are easy to treat at home.

• Milia are tiny white, raised bumps on the face. Baby acne is red or white pimply bumps on babies’ cheeks or foreheads. Both milia and baby acne disappear over time.
• Prickly heat, also known as heat rash, looks like tiny red or clear bumps or larger red splotches on babies’ skin. Prickly heat almost always goes away once parents cool babies down by removing clothing or placing them in a cooler environment.
• Baby eczema, or atopic dermatitis, refers to dry, itchy skin. Babies’ skin appears scaly and sometimes develops patches that get crusty or oozy. Parents should not bathe babies every day who have eczema because it dries out the skin. Unscented moisturizing lotions or ointments applied daily help infants’ skin. Many babies will outgrow the condition.

Our Plano pediatricians and staff are always happy to answer questions about infants’ skin problems and care. Contact us for an appointment.