It's normal for babies to develop skin rashes from as early as a few days old, as their sensitive skin adapts to a different environment. Most rashes are harmless and go away on their own.
It's normal for babies to develop skin rashes from as early as a few days old, as their sensitive skin adapts to a different environment. Most rashes are harmless and go away on their own.
However, if your baby has developed a rash and seems unwell, or if you're worried, see your doctor to find the cause and any necessary treatment. It's especially important to be aware of the warning signs for
.This guide may give you a better idea of the cause of the rash, but don't use it to diagnose your baby's condition by yourself. Always see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
This page covers the most common causes of skin rashes in babies, which are:
It also describes the warning signs of meningitis and explains what to do if you're worried your baby may be at risk.
About half of all newborns will develop tiny (1-2mm) white spots, called
, on their face. These are just blocked pores and usually clear within the first four weeks of life.Half of all newborns will develop a blotchy red skin reaction called erythema toxicum, usually at two or three days old. It is a normal newborn rash that won't bother your baby and will soon clear after a few days.
Pimples sometimes develop on a baby's cheeks, nose and forehead within a month of their birth. These tend to get worse before clearing up completely after a few weeks or months.
Washing your baby's face with water and mild soap can help improve the appearance of their skin. You should avoid acne medicines intended for older children and adults.
Pimples or blackheads that develop after three months of age (infantile acne) tend to be more severe and often need medical treatment.
Cradle cap is not itchy and should not bother your baby. If your baby is scratching or upset, they may have eczema (see below).
Cradle cap is a common condition that tends to develop within two or three months after birth. It will usually get better without treatment in a few weeks or months.
Gently washing your baby's hair and scalp with baby shampoo may help prevent further patches developing. Read more about
.Eczema in babies under six months is associated with allergies to milk and egg.
Atopic eczema often starts in young babies as a red, itchy rash on the face, scalp and body. As the child gets older it usually starts to develop in areas with folds of skin, such as behind the knees or on the front of the elbows. Creams and ointments can often help relieve the symptoms. Read more about
.Nappy rash occurs when the skin around the baby's nappy area becomes irritated. This is often caused by prolonged exposure to urine or stools, but can sometimes be the result of a fungal infection.
You can usually reduce nappy rash by taking simple steps to keep your baby's skin clean and dry, and using a barrier cream if needed. Antifungal cream may be necessary if the rash is caused by a fungal infection. Read more about nappies and nappy rash.
A sweat rash may flare up when your baby sweats, for example because they are dressed in too many clothes or the environment is hot and humid. It is a sign that your baby's sweat glands have become blocked. They may develop tiny red bumps or blisters on their skin, but these will soon clear without treatment.
If your baby gets urticaria during feeding, the condition may be triggered by something they have had to eat or drink. The most common foods are egg and milk but many other foods can sometimes be the cause.
The urticaria rash is usually short-lived and can be controlled with antihistamines. Read more about
.If your baby gets hives repeatedly, it's important to see your doctor to discuss possible allergies.
Most babies will not need treatment as slapped cheek syndrome is usually a mild condition that passes in a few days.
Treatment is usually not needed as the baby's immune system clears the virus and symptoms go away after about 7 to 10 days. If you're worried, see your doctor.
It is often spread between family members, so when babies get scabies it is usually because someone else in the family has had it recently. Babies with scabies develop tiny and very itchy spots all over the body, including on the soles of the feet, armpits and genital area.
Treatment with creams that kill the scabies mite needs to be given to the whole family at the same time to be effective.
Important: Our website provides useful information but is not a substitute for medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your doctor when making decisions about your health.