6 types of rashes in babies and how to prevent them
A rash can manifest as one or more of the following symptoms:
1) Eczema
Eczema is a long-term condition that causes itchy skin, redness, dryness and cracking. The most common form is atopic eczema, which mainly affects babies and children, but can continue into adulthood.
2) Toxic Erythema (the normal rash)
Half of all newborns develop a spotted red skin reaction called toxic erythema , usually at two or three days of life. It is a normal kidney rash that will not disturb your baby and fades after a few days.
3) Urticaria
Urticaria (also known as papule) is a high, red rash that appears on the skin. It happens when a trigger (like a food that your baby is allergic to) releases a substance called histamine into their skin.
4) Diaper rash (red buttocks)
Diaper rash occurs when the skin around the baby’s diaper becomes irritated. This is often caused by prolonged exposure to urine or stool, but can sometimes be the result of a fungal infection or a rare skin condition.
You can usually reduce the skin rash by taking simple steps to keep your baby’s skin clean and dry, and using a barrier cream if necessary. The antifungal cream may be necessary if the erythema is caused by a fungal infection.
5) Scabies
Scabies is a common skin infection that can affect people of all ages. It is caused by tiny mites that are deep in the skin. It often spreads between family members, so when babies get scabies, it’s usually because someone else in the family has recently had it.
Babies with scabies develop tiny, very irritable spots throughout the body, including the soles of the feet, armpits and genital area.
Treatment with creams that kill scabies mites should be given to the whole family for this to be effective.
6) Slapped cheek syndrome
Slapped cheek syndrome is a particularly common viral infection in children and babies. It usually causes a bright red rash on both cheeks and a fever.
Most babies do not need treatment because Slapped cheek syndrome is usually a mild condition that dissapear in a few days.
Prevention of rashes
- Frequent changes (Be sure to pat the skin of the dry child rather than rubbing)
- Buttocks balm + homemade baby powder
- Time without a layer
- Avoid wipes that contain alcohol or perfume (simple water often works)
- Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with your baby’s bath water to get a soothing soak for irritated skin.
- Tea tree oil is a natural anti-fungal, as is coconut oil. Many parents report success by applying 5 drops of tea tree oil mixed with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Notes: Do not apply undiluted tea tree oil to skin.
- Breast milk: Literally applying breast milk to your baby’s rash can help heal. Whatever you do, rub a few drops and let it air dry before putting another layer on your baby.
- Coconut oil: You probably already have it in your pantry, but who knew that coconut oil could contribute to the rash? Simply apply a thin layer to the affected area to soothe the baby’s irritated skin.
- Apple cider vinegar: Use a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and dilute it with half a cup of water. Slightly drop it on your baby’s rash with a washcloth. It contains antibacterial agents.
