If you’re a parent, you’ve likely seen your baby’s sensitive skin react with a rash at some point. Two of the most common are cradle cap and nappy rash, but it also helps to know about more serious rashes, like those from measles or chickenpox.
Cradle Cap
Cradle cap shows up as flaky, sometimes greasy patches on a baby’s scalp. It looks dramatic but usually doesn’t bother your little one. To ease it:
- Wash with a gentle baby shampoo.
- Loosen flakes gently with a soft brush.
- Massage a small amount of baby oil or coconut oil before shampooing to soften crusts.
Cradle cap usually clears on its own, but if it spreads, becomes red or swollen, or isn’t improving, check in with your doctor.
Nappy Rash
This irritation is caused by moisture, friction, or contact with urine and stool. To help:
- Change nappies often and keep the area dry.
- Clean gently with warm water or fragrance-free wipes.
- Apply a thick barrier cream, such as zinc oxide or petroleum jelly.
- Allow nappy-free time so skin can breathe.
If the rash looks bright red with tiny spots at the edges, it could be fungal. In this case, a doctor may suggest an antifungal cream.
Rashes Linked to Illness
Sometimes a rash is a signal of an infection or illness rather than skin irritation. For example:
- Chickenpox comes from the varicella-zoster virus. It starts with itchy red spots that usually appear first on the chest, back, or face. These spots then form little blisters before scabbing over.
- Measles is caused by the measles virus. The rash tends to begin near the hairline or forehead and then spreads downward. It often appears after a few days of fever, cough, and a runny nose.
For both illnesses, rest, plenty of fluids, and pain relief can ease discomfort, but babies with these symptoms should always be checked by a doctor.
Most rashes improve in a few days with gentle care, but if your baby’s rash is spreading quickly, comes with blisters or fever, or doesn’t improve after three days, be sure to seek medical advice.
References
https://www.rch.org.au/clinicalguide/guideline_index/nappy_rash/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531463/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cradle-cap/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350400
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000964.htm
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/conditions/skin-rashes-babies
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322637
