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This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.

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Baby Skin Rash

Baby skin is sensitive and rashes are extremely common. Most are harmless and clear on their own. Learn to distinguish the most common rashes — and when to see a doctor.

Possible Causes

  • 1Baby acne (red pimples on face, harmless, clears on its own)
  • 2Heat rash (small red dots from overheating)
  • 3Nappy rash (irritation from moisture and friction)
  • 4Eczema (dry, itchy, scaly skin)
  • 5Roseola (fever followed by rash on torso)
  • 6Hand-foot-mouth disease (blisters on hands, feet, in mouth)

What You Can Do

  • Clean skin gently with lukewarm water, minimal soap
  • High-quality, fragrance-free moisturiser (for dry skin)
  • Loose, breathable cotton clothing
  • For nappy rash: change frequently, air dry, zinc cream
  • For eczema: lipid-replenishing base care (e.g., Lipikar, Excipial)

When to See a Doctor

  • Rash with fever and baby seems unwell
  • Non-blanching rash (glass test!) → suspected meningococcal → EMERGENCY
  • Severe itching disrupting sleep
  • Pustular, weeping, or spreading patches (bacterial infection)
  • Rash around mouth and eyes with fever
  • Blisters that burst and crust over (impetigo)

Age-Specific Notes

Newborns (0-4 weeks): Baby acne and erythema toxicum (red patches) are normal and harmless. Infants (1-6 months): Cradle cap and seborrhoeic dermatitis common. Babies (6-12 months): Eczema often appears now. Roseola typical at this age. Toddlers: Hand-foot-mouth, chickenpox (if unvaccinated), allergic reactions to solids.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the glass test?
Press a glass firmly on the rash. If spots disappear (fade) under pressure, it's usually harmless. If spots STAY RED under pressure, this may indicate meningococcal infection — this is an EMERGENCY. Call emergency services immediately.
Is baby acne dangerous?
No, baby acne is completely harmless. It appears as small red pimples on the face, often in the first 2-4 weeks. It's caused by maternal hormones. It clears on its own within a few weeks. Don't squeeze, don't treat — just leave it alone.
How do I distinguish eczema from normal dry skin?
Eczema shows: intense itching (baby scratches), red inflamed patches especially in joint creases, cheeks, and neck, comes in flares (better and worse alternating), often runs in families (allergies, asthma). Normal dry skin itches less and is more evenly distributed.

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This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.