Sensitive skin care

As your baby’s skin adjusts to the outside world, you may notice some changes. Most of them are normal, but here’s a quick guide to help you spot when there’s a problem.

Just like your baby’s body and senses develop and respond to the world, so too does his skin. As his skin develops and grows, you may find your baby experiences rashes or spots. Keep these points in mind...

AT BIRTH

When your baby enters the world, he may be covered in a fine white substance that looks and feels like melted cheese. This is called vernix and is normal. During his first bath, the vernix will be washed off. You may notice a few white spots on your newborn baby’s face but these are no cause for alarm. Called milia, these little white spots will clear up on their own – no special treatment required.

RASHES

Almost every baby experiences a rash at some point. Whether it be heat rash, nappy rash, a skin allergy or something serious, the best way to deal with it if you’re concerned is to see your doctor or paediatrician. A nappy rash is quite normal, and is no reflection on your parenting skills! Although uncomfortable for your baby, nappy rash will heal after a while, as long as you keep his genital area as dry as possible – let him go nappy-free for some time during the day. Heat rash can also be unsettling, as the little red bumps seem to spring up out of nowhere. Most commonly, heat rash occurs in areas that are covered or clothed, so the first step in treating it is to cool your baby down. Loose-fitting clothes and ensuring that your baby’s room is the right temperature will help to avoid heat rash. If it does happen, make sure your baby doesn’t scratch the affected area, and do your best to keep the region free of clothing. Your doctor may prescribe a cream or lotion if there is severe itchiness.

THAT’S NOT A RASH

Of course, rashes can be a cause for concern, and they should be if they’re accompanied by a fever or other symptoms.

Chickenpox symptoms, for example, usually begin with a fever, and then a nasty rash of little red blisters follows. Hand, foot and mouth disease starts with a fever, sore throat and small blisters on your baby’s hands, feet or mouth. Measles symptoms often show up as a high-grade fever, with small white spots appearing in your baby’s mouth.

If you’re concerned that this is what you’re dealing with, go to your doctor or clinic immediately.

ECZEMA

Eczema is an uncomfortable skin condition that’s very often connected to a food allergy. It can, however, be a long-term condition that your child will carry into adulthood. Don’t panic just yet though, as eczema is highly treatable. The most common form of it, atopic eczema, is easily treated using a mild moisturiser and creams prescribed by your doctor. Eczema can be very itchy, but it’s important to prevent your baby from scratching, as that could lead to scars. If you’re concerned that your baby has eczema, head to your doctor or clinic as soon as you can.

HIVES

Hives can be an indicator for an allergy. These small, raised patches develop very quickly and are often caused by an allergy to a particular food. Hives can be treated using antihistamine creams or medicine, but if repeated episodes occur, you may need to ask your doctor about allergy testing.

WHEN TO WORRY

If you’re in any way concerned about a rash, get in touch with your doctor or visit your clinic. Most importantly, if the rash is accompanied by other symptoms, like a fever or extreme drowsiness, it’s vital your baby receives immediate medical attention.