Skin Conditions in Babies
Dr. Yong Sin Chuen
Consultant Paediatrician & Neonatologist
Pantai Medical Centre

Skin conditions are common in babies. They are mostly benign and self limiting. Some are present at birth, others evolve during the first days to months of life.

Condition                Description                       What to do

Mongolian spots       Brown to grey patches       Usually fade spontaneously
                                most commonly in the         within 1-2 years. No
                                lower spine and buttocks.   treatment required.

Milia                        1-2mm white dots on the    The dots disappear within
                                nose, forehead and face.     weeks or months. Clean
                                                                         as normal.

Neonatal acne         Small pimple like spots or   Gradually resolve in the first
                               whiteheads on face.             few months of life.
                                                                         If persist, consult
                                                                         paediatrician.

Erythema toxicum    Red blotchy patches with    Rash usually disappear 
                               a yellow centre.                  within 1 week. No treatment
                                                                         is required.

Diaper dermatitis     Red, 'angry' looking            Change diapers regularly. 
                               patches in nappy area.         Clean sore area with water. 
                                                                         Apply barrier cream to 
                                                                         nappy area with each change
                                                                         of diapers.

Naevus simplex       Faint red patch usually        Usually fades within 1 year.
                               found over upper eyelids    Clean as usual.
                               or back of neck.

A Case for the Doctor

Certain skin conditions may be more serious and should only be treated by your paediatrician. You will need to give medications to your baby according to what the doctor prescribed.

Condition                Description                        What you can do

Eczema                    Dry, itchy rash on folds        Use only mild non drying
                                of arms and legs.                 cleaners. Apply moisturisers
                                                                           within minutes of bath.
                                                                           Avoid irritants.

Impetigo                   Blistering or crusted open    Clean affected area gently.
                                spots which look like           Antibiotics to be given on
                                dried pus. Usually on face.   time.

Summary

It is reassuring that most cases of skin conditions in babies will clear up spontaneously. However, parents need to seek medical attention if a condition is not clearing or the baby is unwell and uncomfortable.