Infant Skin Conditions: How to Treat Them

Millions of people are living with a skin condition right now. Some of us have minor acne, maybe a little dryness here and there, while others deal with more severe cases of eczema and psoriasis. Many of those suffering from skin conditions are babies. You might think that babies are born with flawless skin; it’s a common misconception. However, young children do not have a skin barrier, and are therefore more susceptible to skin problems. We’ve rounded up five common infant skin conditions and how to treat them.

Diaper Rash

Because the vast majority of babies wear diapers, diaper rash is the most common of all infant skin conditions. Also called nappy rash, diaper rash is caused by excess moisture in the diaper area. Friction from fabric or adhesive tapes is also a culprit. We suggest keeping baby’s diaper area as dry as possible and letting it air out after cleaning. You can also be sure to change the diaper often and use a baby cream for extra protection.

Baby Acne

Acne isn’t just for teens! In fact, babies as young as two or three weeks old have been known to deal with acne. As hormones circulate in baby’s bloodstream, they stimulate the oil glands, which then causes red bumps to appear. Thankfully, these bumps look worse than they are. Baby acne isn’t bothersome, and the bumps won’t leave any scars as long as you don’t squeeze them. We suggest gently cleansing with warm water and baby wash, and patting the skin dry. Just don’t use acne products meant for adults.

Cradle Cap

Cradle cap, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, is another one of the most common infant skin conditions. The symptoms of cradle cap look a lot like dandruff in adults: flakiness, dryness, itching, and redness. Baby’s overactive sebaceous glands are responsible for cradle cap. They cause the scalp to be overrun with oil, trapping dead skin cells against the surface of the skin. But, fear not. Cradle cap can usually be treated at home. Massage the scalp with petroleum jelly or lotion, and follow up with a round of shampoo to get rid of excess flakes.

Eczema

Of all infant skin conditions, eczema will probably make baby most uncomfortable. In children, eczema starts on the face and may spread to the rest of the body. Itchy rashes and oozing wounds cause baby a lot of pain, so we suggest applying a hypoallergenic moisturizer, like our Baby Lotion. Be sure to bathe baby in lukewarm water and equip their room with a cool-mist humidifier. Also, if symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to visit the pediatrician.

Intertrigo

Intertrigo is another kind of rash that occurs in the folds of baby’s skin. It’s most commonly found in chubbier babies under six months old, and is caused by excess drool that pools in areas of the skin that don’t get much air. If you spot this weepy, raw rash where the skin creases, be sure to wash the folds of the skin and apply petroleum jelly to the affected area. Once baby gains more mobility in the neck, intertrigo goes away.

Whether baby suffers from an infant skin condition, or you’re looking to help their skin care develop, Sebamed has everything you need. Parents around the world trust our baby products to give their children healthy skin from day one. From cleansers to lotions and creams to wipes, we’ll help you craft the perfect baby skin care routine. Check out our baby line here, and our faves for the rest of the family here.

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