Newborn Rashes: Understanding Duration And Treatment Options

Newborns commonly get skin rashes on various parts of their body. Most are harmless and go away on their own within a few days to a few weeks. However, severe jaundice, eczema, or persistent diaper rash may require medical intervention.

Newborn acne

The exact cause of newborn acne is unknown, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes that the baby is exposed to before birth or in the first few weeks of life. These hormones can affect the baby's skin, leading to an increase in sebum production, which can then clog pores and cause acne. Additionally, newborn skin is sensitive and may react to any residue left on it for too long, such as food, vomit, or drool.

If the acne doesn't clear up after a few weeks or seems to be causing discomfort to the baby, it is recommended to contact a healthcare provider for advice and potential treatment options.

Erythema toxicum

ETN typically appears within the first few days of life, though onset can be as late as two weeks of age. It is a self-limiting condition, with the rash resolving within 5-14 days without treatment. The condition is more common in male infants and those born vaginally, in hot and wet climates, and after longer labours.

The cause of ETN is unknown, but it is believed to be related to the immaturity of the pilosebaceous follicles, which include the sebaceous glands and hair follicles. Inflammatory cells tend to aggregate around these hair follicles, and bacteria have been found in the follicular epithelium and inside the inflammatory cells, suggesting that ETN may be a response to microbes that have infiltrated the hair follicle. This process is thought to be an important part of the developing immune system.

While ETN usually resolves on its own, it can cause great concern for parents due to its appearance. Therefore, parental education and reassurance are crucial in the management of this condition.

Milia

No, milia do not usually require treatment. They are not painful or itchy, and they are not contagious. They will usually disappear within a few weeks or months without treatment. However, if there is a coloured rash or crusting around the milia, it is best to seek advice from a doctor or healthcare provider.

How to prevent Milia

Diaper rash

In severe cases, diaper rash may be caused by fungi or yeast, leading to itchy skin with discoloured, dry, or scaly patches, bumps, or blisters. Yeast infections often appear in moist, dark areas like the diaper area and skin folds. If the rash persists or gets worse, it is recommended to consult a doctor, especially if there are signs of infection such as pus-filled blisters, yellowish crusts, or if the rash is accompanied by a fever.

To prevent diaper rash, it is important to change diapers frequently, ideally every 2 hours or after every poop, and to clean the area thoroughly. Using a gentle, fragrance-free, and alcohol-free cleanser can also help prevent irritation. Additionally, avoiding certain ingredients in diapers and wipes, such as chlorine, phthalates, fragrances, alcohol, and latex, can help reduce the risk of diaper rash.

Cradle cap

The exact cause of cradle cap is unknown, but it is probably due to hormones from the mother crossing the placenta before birth, causing the oil glands in the baby's skin to become overactive and release more oil than normal. This excess oil causes dead skin cells to stick to the skin and form yellow crusts and scales.

• Wash the baby's hair with an anti-dandruff shampoo twice a week. On other days, use a gentle baby shampoo.
• While lathering the hair, massage the scalp with a soft brush, a rough washcloth, or your fingers for about 5 minutes.
• If there are thick crusts or scales, apply baby oil to the scalp for 15 minutes before shampooing to help soften them. Be sure to wash all the oil off afterward, as it may worsen the cradle cap if left on.
• Do not use olive oil, as it may increase the growth of yeast.
• Cradle cap lotions are available without a prescription and can be applied 15 minutes before shampooing to help loosen the scales.
• If the rash is red and irritated, a 1% hydrocortisone cream can be used once a day and washed off after an hour. This should be done for 7 days or less.
• Shampoos, lotions, and brushing will help reduce the thickness of the scales and make them go away sooner.

If the cradle cap persists beyond 12 months of age or gets worse with treatment, it is recommended to contact a healthcare provider for further advice and potential prescription treatments.

Frequently asked questions