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Overview
Congratulations on your little one! Newborns often experience a variety of skin and hair conditions in the first few weeks and months of life. These changes are typically harmless and reflect a baby’s adjustment to life outside the womb. While most of these conditions resolve on their own, it’s helpful for parents to recognize them and know when (and when not) to intervene. In most cases, newborn skin and hair changes are completely normal and temporary. If a rash worsens, causes discomfort, or is accompanied by fever or other symptoms, it’s always wise to check with a pediatrician.
Neonatal Acne
Also known as baby acne, this condition causes small red or white bumps to appear on a newborn’s cheeks, nose, and forehead, usually within the first few weeks of life. It is thought to be triggered by residual maternal hormones.
Treatment:
No treatment is usually necessary.
Gently cleanse the baby’s face with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser once a day.
Avoid scrubbing, applying creams, or using acne medications, which can irritate delicate skin.
It typically clears up on its own within 2–6 weeks.
Erythema Toxicum
This common newborn rash looks like red blotches with a small white or yellow center and can appear anywhere on the body, typically in the first few days of life.
Treatment:
No treatment is needed; the rash is harmless and non-contagious.
It usually disappears on its own within a week or two.
Avoid using lotions or creams on the rash unless advised by medical staff.
Dry or Peeling Skin
Newborns, especially those born a little past their due date, often shed the outer layer of their skin in the first week. This may look like dry or peeling skin on the hands, feet, or body.
Treatment:
This process is natural and usually doesn't require any special care.
A fragrance-free, hypoallergenic baby moisturizer can be used if the skin seems especially dry.
Avoid over-bathing, which can worsen dryness.
Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis)
Cradle cap appears as yellowish, greasy scales or flakes on a newborn’s scalp. It can also show up behind the ears, on the eyebrows, or in skin folds. It’s not caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious.
Treatment:
Wash the scalp regularly with a gentle baby shampoo.
Use a soft brush or fine-tooth comb to loosen flakes after washing.
Skin barrier treatments, like those containing zinc, may also help loosen flakes and protect skin from becomming irritated
For more stubborn cases, a pediatrician may recommend a medicated shampoo or mild topical antifungal or steroid cream.
Milia
Milia are tiny white bumps commonly found on a newborn’s nose, cheeks, or chin. They occur when dead skin becomes trapped in small pockets at the surface of the skin.
Treatment:
No treatment is necessary; milia usually resolve on their own within a few weeks.
Do not squeeze or scrub the bumps, as this can irritate the skin.
Lanugo and Hair Loss
Many newborns are born with soft, fine body hair called lanugo, especially on their back, shoulders, or forehead. They may also lose hair on their scalp within the first few months due to hormonal shifts.
Treatment:
No treatment is needed—lanugo naturally sheds, and hair regrows over time.
Gentle scalp care and avoiding friction from tight hats or headbands can help prevent irritation.
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