Neonatal rashes are extremely common, but are quite unsettling for you as a parent. Fortunately, most of them are harmless and fade off on their own without any treatment.

What are some of the common baby skin rashes seen in newborns?

• Contact Rash: This may happen because of touching, kissing or contact of baby’s skin with non-cotton/synthetic wraps

• Neonatal acne: Also called as pink pimples, these are seen on the face and are usually caused due to an exposure to the mother’s hormones while in the womb. They can last for several weeks to months and do not require any treatment.

• Erythema toxicum: This is another common red rash that is seen in newborns. Some babies show yellow or white bumps surrounded by  a reddish flare around them. This rash is commonly seen on the 2nd day after birth, but can also be seen within the first 2 weeks. The rash can last for as little as a few hours or for even a few days. It disappears with time.

• Milia: These are little white bumps seen on the face and nose. They are caused due to blocked oil glands. When these oil glands open in your baby, the bumps disappear.

• Mongolian spots: They are deep brown or bluish black colored, flat birthmarks that are often mistaken for bruises and are found on the back and buttocks. They tend to fade by their 2nd birthday and are common in babies with Asian, African and Hispanic descent.

• Salmon patches: Often called ‘stork bites’ or an ‘angel kiss’, salmon patches are nothing but a nest of blood vessels caused due to maternal hormones that fade within a few weeks or months.

• Prickly heat: A prickly heat rash commonly appears as tiny red bumps in the areas on the baby that is most exposed to humidity and moisture such as the neck, nappy region and armpits. The best treatment is to keep the areas dry and dress the baby in loose cotton clothing.

None of the conditions mentioned above need any medication or treatment. However, if you notice any rashes/spots that seem to be increasing or causing irritability, consult your pediatrician for an opinion.

Disclaimer: The information in the article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor.

Also read: Skin Rashes in Babies: A Concern or Comfort?

#babyhealth