Here is a list of common skin conditions in babies and how to cope with them.
1. Eczema (aka Atopic Dermatitis)
Cause:There is no direct cause of eczema but researchers believe that it is influenced by certain factors such as environmental conditions and immune system dysfunctions. It can also be associated with allergies to milk and eggs.
Symptoms:
Patches of rashy and itchy skin. The rashes often get inflammed if scratched at.
Treatment:
Eczema is a chronic condition that has no cure, so all treatments are simply to help cope. Eczema is most commonly treated in one of three ways; antihistamines, creams/ointments and corticosteroid (medication used to treat allergies, inflammation and itching. A common ointment prescribed by doctors is Epimax. Do consult with your baby's doctor first before buying over the counter medication.
2. Cradle Cap
Cause: The cause is also unknown but researchers believe that hormones from the mother at the end of the pregnancy overstimulate oil producing glands resulting in cradle cap.
Symptoms: Flaky, dry and crusty patches. May appear yellowish at times and cause hair loss. Appears on the scalp.
Treatment: It should go away in a year on its own but you could help alleviate it. You could: -Gently massage some natural oil such as almond oil into the scalp. -Leave it on for 15 minutes then wash off with Johnson's Baby Shampoo. -Don't leave the oil on because it could clog pores causing the flakes to stick.
3. Newborn Rash (aka Erythema Toxicum)
Cause: The cause is unknown
Symptoms: Usually appear as small white pimples surrounded by reddish skin. Can appear all over the body. Usually appears 2-5 days after birth.
Treatment: Usually goes away on its own at around 4 months.
4. Diaper Rash
Cause: Any moisture from a wet diaper could irritate the skin in the diaper area. This could also be caused by mixing of urine and bacteria from stool which breaks down into ammonia. Ammonia is harsh on skin thus forming a rash. Consuming antibiotics can also be a cause as they kill the good bacteria which keeps yeast in check.
Symptoms: These include; inflamed red skin, discomfort during diaper change and puffy skin. It's common with children under a year. If the diaper rash gets infected do seek medical attention. Signs that the rash is infected are open sores and pus filled pimples.
Treatment: Keep the diaper area dry by doing frequent diaper changes. Rinse the diaper area well after each diaper change. Don't use scented wipes clean the genital area. Instead use wet cotton balls. Also, make sure you pat the skin dry rather than rubbing to ensure you don't irritate the sensitive skin.
5. Acne
Cause: The direct cause is unknown but it has been tied to maternal hormones still circulating in the baby's system from pregnancy. These hormones trigger over production of oil by the glands thus the acne.
Symptoms: Small white/yellow pimples surrounded by reddish skin. Manifests on the forehead, chin, cheeks and sometimes back. It may begin from around 2-3 weeks and can last until 4-6 months.
Treatment: The acne usually goes away on its own but you can do some home treatment by, -Washing baby's face with mild baby soap such as Johnson's Baby Soap. -Do not scrub be gentle. -Pat skin dry. -Do not use oily lotions. -Do not squeeze bumps. -Be patient
