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Your new baby’s skin is still developing, so it needs special care. As their skin adapts to their new world, many newborns experience these common skin conditions.
Your newborn’s skin must adapt from the water-like environment of your womb to the dryer environment after birth. The transition isn’t immediate, and your baby’s skin will continue to develop long after birth, which makes his skin more delicate than yours.
Although your baby’s skin can absorb moisture at a faster rate than adult skin, it can lose it faster, too—leaving your baby’s skin prone to dryness. In addition, your baby’s immune system is still developing, so there’s also a greater potential for infection.
1. Baby Acne
Baby acne occurs in approximately 20 percent of all babies. It generally resolves itself during the first few months. It may take the appearance of pimples, whiteheads or a minor rash.
Small white pimples or spots called milia usually appear on the face, especially the nose and chin. They aren't itchy and won't bother your baby. They are just the result of immature sweat glands, and possibly hormones from your pregnancy, and will disappear without treatment.
Although most baby acne is self-limiting and resolves on its own, if your baby’s condition is severe or you have concerns, be sure to talk to your baby's doctor.
2.Skin Peeling
You may also notice during the first few days that your newborn's skin peels slightly, especially on the palms of his hands, soles of his feet and his ankles. This is perfectly normal, especially if your baby was born past his due date. After a few days the peeling will go away. You can ask your baby’s doctor if using a baby ointment or moisturiser might be helpful.
3.Eczema & Dry Skin
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects up to 20 percent of all babies. Eczema, is frequently seen in babies with a family history of eczema, asthma or allergic rhinitis.
In babies, it often appears as a red, irritated, itchy rash on the face and scalp. In some cases, certain foods (such as cow's milk, eggs, wheat or oranges) may provoke a flare-up.
Continue reading on the next page to read about more newborn skin concerns!
In babies, eczema often appears as a rash on the hands, face, neck, inside of the elbows and back of the knees, but may spread to other areas Eczema rashes are associated with intense itching (pruritus). If the condition continues or is severe, you should definitely talk to your baby’s doctor to understand if the condition is clinical eczema (atopic dermatitis) or dry skin, and to learn the best way to treat and manage.
4.Cradle Cap
Some babies have cradle cap or seborrheic dermatitis—a skin condition that looks like crusty or scaly patches on the scalp or eyebrows. This is a very common condition that may begin in the first few weeks and usually lasts several weeks or months. Fortunately, it usually resolves completely when your baby is between eight and 12 months old.
To help alleviate cradle cap, you can gently massage a moisturiser or oil onto the patches to soften the crust. Wait a few minutes, then comb gently to remove the flakes. Then you can shampoo with a gentle made-for-babies shampoo.
5.Diaper Rash
50 to 60% of all babies will suffer from diaper rash at some time. Diaper rash can lead to an increased frequency of crying, changes in eating habits and sleep patterns, agitated and restless behaviour and sometime less urination and/or defecation to avoid pain. Careful care when changing your baby’s diaper can help prevent diaper rash. Here are tips that can help prevent it:
- Keep your baby clean and dry by changing the diaper frequently.
- Clean your baby’s diaper area well at each diaper change. Remember to pat her skin dry don’t rub.
- Don’t put on the diaper too tight, as it allows better air circulation and speeds healing. You could even let your baby sleep with a bare bottom.
- If the problem still persists, you should immediately contact a doctor.
Even though many of these conditions resolve on their own, if you do have any worries or concerns, it’s best to speak to your doctor.
Also Read: 11 incredible ways in which massage benefits your baby and you
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