Miliaria (Sweat rash)
These raised, red and rounded pimples generally appear on the forehead, neck or in any creases when it’s hot outside or the baby has a fever. However, they go away as soon as it cools down. Try not to overdress your baby and, if possible, lower your house’s humidity.
Intertrigo (Crease rash)
When two skin surfaces rub together (e.g. underneath the chin, neck, armpits, thighs or scrotum) or in areas often exposed to moisture (e.g. sweat, milk, urine, stool, etc.), it can cause an irritation called “intertrigo.”
Cradle Cap
What’s known as “cradle cap” is a yellowish, patchy, greasy, scaly and crusty area of dry skin that can appear on top of a baby’s head. This is actually another type of eczema that occurs when there's an excess of sebaceous secretions on the scalp. If appropriate treatment is not given, the rash can thicken. Apply some light almond oil to the irritated skin and rub gently.
Dry Skin
If your baby’s skin is flaking, peeling or even cracking, it might be a bit too dry in your house. Try not to use soap when giving the baby a bath for a little while and apply hydrating cream or lotion on the baby’s skin afterward.
Sunburns
As soon as the sun shows itself again in the early days of spring, you need to make sure your kids aren’t being exposed to too many UV rays.
Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Don’t use sunscreen before your child is six months to avoid allergic reactions;
- After six months, choose a cream with an SPF of at least 30 and without PABA. Apply it to his or her entire body about 30 minutes before heading outside and reapply every 2 hours;
- To protect your baby’s skin, put a hat or clothes on that cover arms and legs;
- Avoid being in the sun while it’s at peak intensity (between 10 a.m.–2 p.m.), or stay in the shade, if nothing else;
- Drink lots and lots of water to prevent dehydration.
