Zain Medical Center | Tips to Keep Newborn's Skin Healthy
Sami Anwar - CEO of Zain Medical Center Explains Some Tips To Keep newborn's Skin Health. You must follow these tips to keep your babies healthier and smoother skin.
Anticipate Rashes, Bumps, and Spots
Babies develop a myriad of skin conditions during the first few months of life. These include cradle cap, diaper rash, toxic erythema, milia, infantile acne, and others. Some are caused by normal hormonal changes or immature pores, while others are caused by inflammation or, rarely, an infection.
Newborns Get Rashes Easily
Because most newborn's rashes are "normal", there is generally no treatment needed except for patience. It's important to ask the doctor for some guidance about what to expect when it comes to rashes and which require some additional treatment.
How to Avoid Diaper Rash
According to Sami Anwar - CEO of Zain Medical Center , Diaper rash is often caused by irritation to the skin due to contact with urine, stool, and detergent. Sometimes it can be caused by yeast infections, bacterial infections, or even due to an allergy to diaper material. In general, most diaper rashes can be prevented by changing diapers when they are wet or soiled and allowing the diaper area to dry between changes. Using a topical barrier cream or ointment such as zinc oxide or A&D ointment can help.
Baby Acne
Acne neonatorum also called neonatal or baby acne is caused by maternal hormones. The same hormones (estrogens) are involved in causing acne in adolescents. The big difference is that this will resolve on its own within a couple of weeks, and no treatment is needed.
Erythema Toxicum Neonatorum
Erythema toxicum neonatorum is the most common pustular (fluid-filled) eruption in newborns. More than half of all newborns develop this rash usually within two to three days after birth. Generally, the rash appears on the face or extremities and initially as a red raised eruption. Then they develop into a pustule with a "blotchy" appearance. The cause is unknown, however the lesions fade after a week, and there is no treatment needed. Sometimes this is confused with more serious infections of the skin. If there is fever associated with the eruption, further evaluation is needed.
Birthmarks
Birthmarks can be found in 5%-10% of all babies. Most of these are common nevi (areas of skin discoloration) and need no further evaluation. Birthmarks are generally divided into three groups: pigmented, vascular, and anatomic. Some birthmarks develop over time, and some are present at birth. Always talk to a pediatrician about any concerns about birthmarks.
Eczema or Atopic Dermatitis
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a pruritic (itchy) rash that occurs in response to a specific exposure or allergy. It is generally seen in children over 3 months of age and appears most commonly on the scalp, face, trunk, extremities (elbows and knees), and even in the diaper area. Treatment is focused on avoiding the trigger and then allowing the skin to "heal." This may include using moisturizers and even topical steroids.
Newborn's Dry Skin
Newborns often have very dry peeling skin in the initial period after birth. This is due to the fact that the infant has existed in a fluid environment for several months, and after birth, the skin cells start to regenerate, which results in the peeling of the old skin cells. There is no need to do anything since this will resolve on its own.
Cradle Cap
Cradle cap, also called seborrheic dermatitis, is a very common rash seen in newborns. The rash, usually seen in the first month of life, starts on the scalp and has a red, waxy, and scaly appearance. Sometimes the rash can extend to the face and neck. It is not generally itchy, and although it will resolve on its own, the treatment may include a special shampoo, petroleum jelly, and even a topical steroid.
Prickly Heat Skin Irritation
Prickly heat is also known as miliaria rubra. It is due to a sweat gland dysfunction. The rash appears on the neck, diaper area, armpits, and any skinfolds most likely to be prone to increased sweating. The rash may itch as well. Keep the infant cool (in the summer and winter) and it's likely the baby will avoid this reaction. In most cases, prickly heat resolves within a couple of days, but speak to a pediatrician about other options if it persists.
Baby Skin Doesn't Need Powder
Although "baby powder" seems like an important item to have for an infant, it is generally not needed. Regardless of that, it is extremely important to avoid talc-containing powder, since there is a risk for accidental inhalation and subsequent lung problems.
Laundry Tips for Baby's Skin
Babies can be very sensitive to perfumes and harsh detergents. Use a gentle unscented detergent when washing infant's clothes and bedding. Doing so will help prevent allergies or sensitivities.
Skin-Care Products for Baby
Most skin-care products should not be used on very young infants because of the risk of exposure to active chemicals, which may be absorbed at higher rates in the thinner, less developed skin of infants. Avoid products with dyes and fragrances, since these may result in allergic reactions. Always discuss with the pediatrician which products can be used on infants.
Massage for Baby
A number of recent studies suggest that gentle massage can improve an infant's sleep and decrease stress. It also is a great way to bond with an infant. Try not to massage too vigorously after feeding, since it might cause the baby to spit up.
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