Newborn Baby Care: Skin Conditions
If your baby doesn't have smooth, flawless skin, don't stress. (That'll only keep YOUR skin from looking flawless, right?) In fact, it's common for babies to have one or more of these skin conditions.
Acne Neonatorum
Commonly referred to as "newborn acne," acne neonatorum are red spots that may have yellowish centers that form because of a surge of hormones just before birth. Even though they look like they're infected, they usually aren't, so they don't require any treatment and will eventually disappear on their own.
Milia
Milia are little white bumps that resemble whiteheads that typically appear on a baby's nose, forehead and cheeks (though they can occur on the trunk, limbs or penis as well). These dots appear raised, but are actually flat and smooth to the touch. They are caused by a buildup of sebum (a skin lubricant secreted by your baby's body). Milia will disappear on their own once your baby's oil glands and pores are a little more mature—typically within the first 2 to 4 weeks of life.
Miliaria
Miliaria is a raised rash made up of small blisters filled with fluid from normal skin secretions. The fluid may be clear or milky white. Treat the rash with normal washing and it will disappear.
Erythema Toxicum
Erythema toxicum are red splotches that may have yellowish-white bumps in the centers. They look like little flea bites, but don't worry—the rash has nothing to do with fleas or bites. They often pop up the day after birth and disappear on their own within a week or two.
Pustular melanosis
Pustular melanosis ar small blisters that quickly dry up and peel away, leaving dark, freckle-like spots underneath. The "freckles" typically disappear within a couple of weeks, too, leaving no permanent marks.
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