Tuesday, November 14, 2006

My Newborn has a Rash on her Face!



One of the most frequently seen conditions in newborns is this atopic eczema on the cheeks of babies. This is a mild case in one of our little patients. Some children may also have the red scaly rash on their arms and legs.

For mild cases like this all you need to do is to observe some basic tips:
  1. Avoid soap and perfumed products in the bath
  2. Apply a mild moistursing agent to the skin (make sure it is baby safe)
  3. Avoid using hot water, use tepid water instead
  4. If the rash is on the body as well, use 100% cotton clothing
When you need to be concerned:
  1. When the rash can get so bad that it starts to weep and infection sets in.
  2. When the baby is very irritable because of the itch.
What can be done:
  1. The doctor may prescribe a mild steroid cream and anti-itch medication for more severe cases


The good news is that most of the mild cases will usually clear up by the time the child is 1 to 2 years old, like this little one year old (different child) who had a similar rash last year. Now the skin is as smooth as .... well......a baby's bottom.

This is only a very short blog on the topic of atopic eczema specifically on the newborn infants' cheek. For a more complete article on Eczema in kids please click here

Always, always consult your doctor if you are unsure.

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