Your Go-To Guide for Common Baby Skincare Issues

DID YOU KNOW? October is Eczema Awareness Month

Learn more about how to take care of your baby’s delicate skin from Cetaphil Baby, the gentle skincare experts.

Even seasoned parents can sometimes use a bit of help decoding the severity of baby’s skin conditions. Whether you’re dealing with a rash, dry skin, or something a bit more serious, these tips can help you identify and treat five issues that could be affecting your baby’s delicate skin.

Baby Acne

These little red or white bumps on baby’s face are very common, and will likely clear up on their own in a few months. Keep baby’s face clean and dry, and resist the urge to scrub affected areas or apply acne drugs, which will further irritate baby’s sensitive skin. Also, avoid harsh or scented laundry detergents and soaps. Though baby acne is common and not life-threatening, you should discuss any concerns with your pediatrician during your next wellness exam.

Cradle Cap

Cradle cap can range from small, dandruff-like flakes to thicker, yellow or brown oily scales on baby’s scalp, ears, or eyebrows. While it’s not so great to look at, there’s no need to worry: cradle cap almost always clears up on its own by 12 months of age. In the meantime, wash baby’s hair up to once a day with a mild baby shampoo like Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo and use a soft brush to gently loosen flakes. If it seems severe or to be worsening, it might be time to visit the pediatrician who may recommend a medicated shampoo.

Eczema

Eczema is very common and is identified by red, scaly patches of skin on baby’s face or in folds of the skin. While usually genetic, many environmental irritants can cause flare ups, including harsh soaps, sweat, or dry skin. Use a gentle, fragrance-free body wash, such as Cetaphil Baby Eczema Calming Wash to help keep skin clean and hydrated. Follow up with a good moisturizer like Cetaphil Baby Eczema Calming Lotion that helps calm dry, itchy, and irritated skin for long-lasting relief and strengthens skin’s protective moisture barrier. You should see a doctor if the eczema is severe, worsening, or affecting your little one's sleep.

Chicken Pox

Little one have a red spotty rash across her chest? It could be chicken pox. This itchy rash is very contagious and can be quite a nuisance, but should clear up on its own in a week or so. If your child seems sicker than expected, or has a persistent fever, it might be time to call the doctor.

Hives

These common, itchy welts form in response to contact with an allergen or irritant. The list of potential culprits is lengthy, and can include foods, pet dander, pollen, or insect bites. While not usually a cause for concern, you can check with your doctor about offering an antihistamine to alleviate itching. If your child is also experiencing wheezing, facial swelling, or difficulty swallowing; however, call 911 immediately. These are often symptoms of anaphylactic shock and require immediate medical attention.