Red Spots On Newborns: What's Normal?

Newborn babies commonly develop rashes and red spots, which are usually harmless and tend to disappear without treatment. These spots can be caused by exposure to maternal hormones in the womb, blocked oil glands, or simply by the birth process. While most rashes are not serious, some may indicate a more severe condition, such as a bacterial or viral infection. It is important for parents to monitor their newborn's skin and seek medical advice if they are concerned or if the rash is accompanied by other symptoms.

Erythema toxicum

ET usually appears within the first few days after birth and fades within a week or two without treatment. The cause of ET is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to the immaturity of the pilosebaceous follicles, which includes the sebaceous glands and the hair follicles. It is also thought to be an immune system reaction, as inflammatory cells tend to aggregate around hair follicles, and bacteria have been found in the follicular epithelium and inside the inflammatory cells.

There is no treatment for ET, and the rash will disappear within 1-2 weeks. However, if the skin bumps worsen or have not disappeared by the time the baby is about two weeks old, it is recommended to call a doctor.

Mongolian spots

It is normal for newborns to have red spots, and these are usually harmless rashes that go away on their own. One type of spot that a newborn may have is called a Mongolian spot, and these are very common birthmarks.

These spots are usually left untreated as they appear in areas that can be covered by clothing or camouflaged with cosmetics. They often fade within a few years, but some people may have them into adulthood, and laser treatment is sometimes used for removal.

Stork bites

These birthmarks are commonly found on the forehead, eyelids, tip of the nose, upper lip, or back of the neck. They are flat, and their colour may change or become more noticeable when the baby cries or experiences temperature changes. They may also fade when pressure is applied to the area.

While stork bites usually disappear on their own, some may persist into adulthood, especially those located on the back of the neck. If a stork bite does not fade over time, it can be removed through laser treatment for cosmetic reasons. However, treatment is generally not necessary as stork bites are painless and do not cause any discomfort or health issues for the child.

Baby acne

The exact cause of baby acne is unknown, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes that affect newborns during birth or the first few weeks of life. These hormonal changes can affect how a baby's skin produces sebum, an oily substance that protects the skin and hair. Too much sebum can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Additionally, babies' sensitive skin may react negatively to any residue left on it for too long, such as food, vomit, or drool.

To help manage baby acne, it is important to practise good skincare habits. This includes gently washing your baby's skin with warm water at least once daily, avoiding scrubbing or using lotions or oily products that may clog pores, and cleaning up any residue on their face after feeding. In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend topical treatments such as antifungal creams or low-potency steroids.

Cradle cap

The exact cause of cradle cap is unknown, but doctors believe it may be due to overactive oil glands in the baby's skin, leading to excess oil and dead skin cells sticking to the scalp. A yeast called malassezia may also contribute to the condition. Additionally, hormones passed from the mother to the baby during pregnancy can cause the baby's oil glands and hair follicles to produce excess oil, known as sebum.

Treating cradle cap is fairly straightforward and can be done at home. Keeping the baby's scalp clean with regular washing using an unscented baby shampoo can help. A soft brush can be used to gently remove the scales after washing. If necessary, your doctor may recommend medicated shampoos or antifungal treatments. It is important to avoid picking or scratching at the cradle cap, as this can increase the risk of infection.

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