Skin rashes in babies
Introduction
It's normal for babies to develop rashes from as early as a few days old, as their sensitive skin adapts to a different environment. Most rashes are harmless and go away on their own.
Butif your baby has developed a rash and seems unwell, or if you're worried, see your GP to find outthe cause and receive any necessary treatment. It's especially important to be aware of the symptoms of Meningitis .
This guide may give you a better idea of the cause of the rash, but don't use it to diagnose your baby's condition. Always see a GP for a proper diagnosis.
This page covers the followingcommon rashes in babies:
- Baby acne (neonatalacne)
- Cradle cap
- Eczema
- Erythema toxicum (the "normal newborn rash")
- Hand, foot and mouth disease
- Sweat rash (miliaria)
- Hives (urticaria)
- Impetigo
- Milia (blocked oil glands)
- Nappy rash
- Ringworm
- Scabies
- Slapped cheek syndrome
It also describes the warning signs of meningitis and explains whatto do if you're worried about your baby.
The causes of rashes in older children are covered separately.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 24 Jan 2017
Introduction
Find out about some of the most common rashes that affect babies.
Baby acne (neonatal acne)
Pimples sometimes develop on a baby's cheeks, nose and forehead within a month of their birth. These tend to get worse before clearing up completely after a few weeks or months. Washing your baby's
Cradle cap
Cradle cap is where yellowish, greasy, scaly patches develop on a baby's scalp. Occasionally, the face, ears and neck are also affected. Cradle cap isn't itchy and shouldn't bother your baby. If you
Hives (urticaria)
Hives (also known as urticaria) is a raised, red itchy rash that appears on the skin. It happens when a trigger (such as a food that your baby is allergic to) causes a substance called histamine to b
Impetigo
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the surface layers of the skin, which causes sores and blisters. It's not usually serious, but you can visit your GP for a prescription of anti
Milia
About half of all newborns developtiny (1-2mm)white spots, called milia, on their face. These are just blocked pores and usually clear within the first four weeks of life.
Nappy rash
Nappy rash occurs when the skin around the baby's nappy area becomes irritated. This is often caused by prolonged exposure to wee or poo, but can sometimes be the result of a fungal infection or rare
Slapped cheek syndrome
Slapped cheek syndrome is a viral infection particularly common in children and babies. It typically causes a bright red rash on both cheeks and a fever. Most babies won't need treatment, as slappe
Sweat rash (miliaria)
A heat rash, sometimes calledmiliaria or prickly heat ,may flare upwhen your baby sweatsfor example, because they're dressed in too many clothes or the environment is hot and humid. It's a sign your
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