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Many babies will have a rash of some type during the first year of life. Rashes often appear as red, raised bumps on the skin. Sometimes a rash makes the skin look red or irritated, but without any raised areas. Most of the time, rashes go away by themselves. Here are two types of rashes that you can do something about.
Cradle cap appears on the baby's head. The skin may be red and irritated. There may also be an oily, yellow crust on the scalp. It is a common form of dermatitis that is made worse by too frequent washing. Do not wash the scalp too frequently. Do not use shampoo or soap. Apply a cradle cap preparation such as Egocappol or 0.5% hydrocortisone cream. TO WASH THE BABY'S HAIR, FOLLOW THESE STEPS: - Put everything you will need near the sink: basin, towel, shampoo, and brush.
- Wrap the baby in a bath towel and be sure the arms are tucked inside the towel. Wrapping helps babies feel more secure. It also keeps them from wiggling away from you.
- If you are right-handed, cup the baby's head in your left hand. Hold the baby along your left arm, and cradle close to your body. Position the baby's head so that the water will roll down the back of the head away from the forehead and face.
- Use your right hand as a cup to pour water over the baby's head. Make sure the water is lukewarm before you put it on the baby's head.
- Work up a lather with a mild moisturising soap like Cetaphil. Use a baby brush or washer to loosen any scale. Rinse with lukewarm water. Dry the baby's head with a towel.
- If you are concerned about harming the baby's "soft spot," do not be. The "soft spot" will not be harmed with gentle rubbing or brushing.
Eczema is a rash that starts as an itchy, red area on the cheeks. It may develop into small sores or blisters. Eczema is a sign of an allergic reaction. Foods, or exposure to some fabrics, rugs, soaps, or laundry detergents can cause eczema. If your baby develops a rash on his face, wash the area with cool water and mild, non-perfumed soap such as Cetaphil lotion. Keep the baby's nails clipped to prevent damage from scratching. Consult your doctor for treatment and help in identifying allergy-producing substances. Article #4808 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
