There are 5 types of common baby skin irritations every parent should know about. These are diaper rash, neonatal acne, cradle cap, atopic dermatitis in infants, and miliaria or sudamina.
In the following lines we talk about its main characteristics, as well as the results of some recent studies. Also, we give some simple and effective tips to help prevent these skin problems.
baby skin
Baby skin is very different from adult skin. AND leaner, with less hair, produces less sweat and also a smaller amount of sebaceous secretions. These differences are even more evident in premature infants.
The exposure of this delicate skin to the weather, bacteria and possible injury by contact it makes him very vulnerable in the first months of life. Therefore, it requires specific care at all times.
5 types of common baby skin irritations
The most common baby skin irritations are not serious. However, they often cause great concern and anxiety in parents. Therefore, below, let’s talk in more detail about the 5 most frequent.
However, You should always see a doctor for any symptoms., as there are some major diseases that can show symptoms through the skin. In these cases, early diagnosis is essential.
1. Diaper rash
To begin with, despite the great advances made by diapers and their absorbent materials, they can also cause some irritation to the baby’s skin, which is still developing. Moisture and contact with feces are factors that facilitate the appearance of diaper rash.
This recent study published in the journal Pediatric Dermatology, showed a relationship between most cases of diaper rash and yeast infection candida albicans. However, it also establishes that there are fewer cases of this type of dermatitis in breastfed babies, which is why it proposes this habit as prevention.
2. Common baby skin irritations: neonatal acne
Neonatal acne usually appears in the first month of life.. In most cases it is a benign and temporary skin manifestation, as underlined by this article published in dermatological protocols. However, it can sometimes present with a more serious hormonal imbalance.
This type of acne appears mostly on the forehead, nose and cheeks and may be related to fungus. Malassezia. To relieve your symptoms, a topical lotion is prescribed and usually clears up within a few weeks.
3. Cradle cap
Cradle cap usually disappears after the first few months of life, although creams can be applied to improve symptoms.
The cradle cap is a seborrheic dermatitis affecting the child in the first three months of life. And this is proved by this study published in Medical, aesthetic and surgical dermatology. This produces patches on the scalp with crusty, greasy, scaly characteristics, as well as redness.
Cradle cap usually disappears naturally. But you can also help by applying olive oil to the affected area. However, some cases require medical attention, therefore It is best to consult the pediatrician..
4. Infantile atopic dermatitis
One in ten breastfed babies may suffer from this condition during the first three months of life. This kind of dermatitis it usually appears on the cheeks, neck, and arms.
The cause is a alteration of skin lipids, which hinder its protective function. Additionally, this imbalance causes redness, itching, and dryness, which can lead to scratching and injury to your baby.
It is recommended use mild and natural soaps, as well as vegetable oils that help restore the protective barrier of the skin. In this case you could also use olive or almond oil, but always consulting a doctor beforehand.
5. Miliaria or sudamina, one of the common irritations on baby’s skin
Finally, this skin disorder affects 40% of babies, mostly during the first month of life. However, It can appear at any age, especially in places with humid and hot climates.
The cause of miliaria or sudamin is a clogging of pores leading to sweat glands, preventing the removal of sweat, as outlined in this World Health Organization (WHO) notice. This retention results in small red or white pimples, or even blisters, appearing on the face, neck or back.
Miliaria usually goes away without the need for any specific treatment.. However, to help prevent its occurrence, it is advisable to avoid it excessive heat of the child and choose clothes made from natural materials like cotton.
In short, as you have seen, these are the most common irritations on baby’s skin during the first months of life. For this reason it may be useful to follow the care required by this delicate skin step by step and, If in doubt, consult your doctor.
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