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Newborn Rashes and Skin Conditions

Table of Contents


Overview

What rashes and skin conditions are common in newborns?

It's very common for newborns to have rashes or other skin conditions. Some of them have long names that are hard to say and sound scary. But most are harmless and will go away on their own in a few days or weeks. Here are some of the things you may notice about your new baby's skin.

Rash

Pimples

Blotchy skin

Tiny red dots

Scaly scalp

What birthmarks are common?

Birthmarks are colored marks on the skin that are there at birth or shortly after birth. They can be different sizes, shapes, and colors. Some form a raised area on the skin. They can grow quickly, stay the same size, shrink, or go away over time.

Most birthmarks are harmless and painless. Talk to your child's doctor about whether any birthmarks need treatment.

What is jaundice?

Many newborn babies have a yellow tint to their skin and the whites of their eyes. This is called jaundice. It happens when a substance called bilirubin builds up in the baby's blood. It usually appears by 2 to 4 days of age.

Jaundice usually gets better or goes away on its own within a week or two without causing problems. If you are nursing, it may be normal for your baby to have very mild jaundice throughout breastfeeding.

In rare cases, jaundice gets worse and can cause brain damage. So be sure to call your doctor if you notice signs that jaundice is getting worse. Your doctor can treat your baby to get rid of the extra bilirubin. You may be able to treat your baby at home with a special type of light. This is called phototherapy.

When should you call a doctor?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:


Credits for Newborn Rashes and Skin Conditions

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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