Baby skin is delicate and sensitive. Rashes, bumps, and patches are incredibly common and usually harmless. This guide covers the most common baby skin conditions, what they look like, what causes them, how to treat them, and when to call your pediatrician.
AAPEvidence-based content
Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis)
Common ages: 2 weeks to 12 months (most common 2-6 months)
Cradle cap is a very common, harmless skin condition that causes thick, yellowish, scaly or crusty patches on a baby's scalp. It is not caused by poor hygiene or allergies, and it does not bother your baby - it looks worse than it is. Most cases resolve on their own by 6-12 months of age.
What it looks like
Thick, yellowish or brownish greasy-looking scales or crusts on the scalp. May also appear behind the ears, on the eyebrows, or around the nose. The skin underneath may look slightly red. Unlike eczema, cradle cap is not usually itchy.
Causes
Overactive sebaceous (oil) glands, likely stimulated by maternal hormones still in the baby's system
A type of yeast (Malassezia) that lives naturally on the skin may play a role
Not caused by allergies, poor hygiene, or bacterial infection
Treatment
Gently massage baby oil, coconut oil, or mineral oil into the scalp, let sit for 15-20 minutes, then brush with a soft baby brush to loosen scales
Wash with a gentle baby shampoo and use a fine-tooth comb or soft brush after bathing
Do not pick or scratch at the scales - this can cause irritation or infection
For stubborn cases, your pediatrician may recommend a medicated shampoo (such as ketoconazole) or a low-potency hydrocortisone cream
Improvement is usually seen within a few weeks of regular gentle treatment
When to call your pediatrician
Scales spread to the face, neck, or diaper area (may indicate seborrheic dermatitis beyond the scalp)
Skin looks red, swollen, or weepy underneath the scales (possible infection)
Baby seems itchy or uncomfortable - cradle cap should not cause distress
Condition persists beyond 12 months or worsens despite treatment
Common ages: 2-6 months onward (can persist into childhood)
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting up to 20% of infants. It causes dry, itchy, red patches that may come and go in flares. While there is no cure, it can be effectively managed. Babies with eczema are at higher risk for food allergies and asthma (the 'atopic triad'), so early management and discussion with your pediatrician is important.
What it looks like
Red, dry, rough, or scaly patches of skin. In infants, it commonly appears on the cheeks, forehead, and outer surfaces of the arms and legs. In older babies and toddlers, it often moves to the creases of elbows and knees. During flares, skin may weep, crust, or become thickened from scratching. On darker skin tones, eczema may appear as darker brown, purple, or grayish patches rather than red.
Causes
Genetic predisposition - common in families with a history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever
A weakened skin barrier that allows moisture to escape and irritants to enter
Common ages: 2-4 weeks (may last until 3-4 months)
Baby acne appears as small red or white bumps on a newborn's face, most commonly on the cheeks, nose, and forehead. It affects roughly 20% of newborns. Despite its appearance, baby acne is harmless, does not bother the baby, and resolves on its own without treatment. It does not cause scarring and is not related to acne in adolescence.
What it looks like
Small red bumps or pimples, sometimes with tiny white centers, primarily on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. May temporarily worsen when the baby is warm, fussy, or after spit-up contact. Unlike eczema, baby acne does not cause dry or scaly skin and is not itchy.
Causes
Maternal hormones still circulating in the baby's system after birth
Yeast (Malassezia) that naturally colonizes the skin may play a role
Not caused by poor hygiene, formula, breastfeeding, or anything the parent is eating
Treatment
No treatment is usually needed - baby acne resolves on its own within a few weeks to months
Gently wash your baby's face daily with warm water and a mild baby cleanser
Do not use adult acne products, lotions, or oily creams on baby acne
Do not squeeze, pick, or scrub the bumps - this can irritate the skin or cause infection
If acne is severe or persists past 4 months, your pediatrician may prescribe a gentle medicated cream
When to call your pediatrician
Acne appears after 6 weeks of age and is getting worse (this may be infantile acne, which can need treatment)
Bumps are filled with pus, look infected, or are spreading rapidly
Acne is accompanied by other symptoms like poor feeding or unusual irritability
Skin bumps persist or worsen beyond 6 months of age
Diaper rash is one of the most common skin conditions in infants, affecting most babies at some point. It presents as red, irritated skin in the diaper area. Most cases are caused by prolonged contact with wet or soiled diapers and respond well to simple home care. However, persistent or severe diaper rash may have an underlying cause like yeast infection or allergy.
What it looks like
Red, inflamed skin in areas covered by the diaper - buttocks, thighs, and genitals. Mild cases show slight redness; moderate cases have raised red patches with small bumps. In severe cases, the skin may be bright red, raw, or have open sores. Skin folds are typically spared in simple irritant diaper rash (unlike yeast diaper rash, which affects the folds).
Causes
Prolonged contact with urine or stool (enzymes in stool are particularly irritating)
Friction from the diaper rubbing against skin
Introduction of new foods changing stool composition (common when starting solids)
Antibiotic use (disrupts normal skin flora, may lead to secondary yeast infection)
Sensitivity to diaper brand, wipes, or creams
Diarrhea - frequent loose stools are especially irritating to skin
Treatment
Change diapers frequently - every 1-2 hours and immediately after a bowel movement
Allow air-drying time: let your baby go diaper-free on a waterproof pad for short periods throughout the day
Apply a thick barrier cream with zinc oxide (such as Desitin or Boudreaux's Butt Paste) at every diaper change
Use warm water and a soft cloth instead of wipes during a flare, or use fragrance-free wipes
Gently pat (do not rub) the area dry before applying cream
If the rash persists beyond 3 days despite treatment, see your pediatrician - it may be a yeast infection requiring antifungal cream
When to call your pediatrician
Rash does not improve after 3 days of diligent home treatment
Rash has bright red satellite dots around the edges (classic sign of yeast infection)
Rash is in the skin folds and creases (suggests yeast rather than simple irritant dermatitis)
Baby has fever or the rash has blisters, pus, or open sores
Heat rash occurs when sweat ducts become blocked and sweat gets trapped under the skin. It is very common in babies because their sweat glands are not fully developed. Heat rash is harmless and resolves quickly once the baby is cooled down. It is most common in hot, humid weather or when babies are overdressed.
What it looks like
Tiny, clear or red bumps or blisters, often in clusters. Commonly appears on areas prone to sweating: neck, chest, back, armpits, elbow creases, and diaper area. Miliaria crystallina (mildest form) shows clear, tiny blisters. Miliaria rubra (prickly heat) shows small red bumps that may be slightly itchy. The rash typically appears in areas where clothing is tight or skin folds trap heat.
Causes
Overdressing or overbundling, especially in warm weather
Hot, humid environments
Immature sweat glands that are easily blocked
Tight or non-breathable clothing
Fever (increased body temperature can trigger heat rash even in cool environments)
Treatment
Cool the baby down - move to a cooler environment or use a fan for air circulation
Remove excess clothing layers; dress in loose, breathable cotton
A lukewarm bath can help cool the skin and unclog pores
Pat skin dry gently - do not rub
Avoid applying lotions, creams, or powders to the affected area (these can further block pores)
Calamine lotion can be used for itchy heat rash, but check with your pediatrician first
When to call your pediatrician
Rash does not improve within 2-3 days of cooling measures
Baby develops a fever along with the rash
Bumps become filled with pus or look infected (signs of secondary bacterial infection)
Baby seems excessively uncomfortable, lethargic, or is not feeding well
Common ages: Any age (more common after 6 months when new foods and allergens are introduced)
Hives are raised, itchy welts on the skin that can appear suddenly and may change shape, size, and location within hours. In babies, hives are most commonly triggered by viral infections, but can also result from food allergies, medication reactions, or insect stings. Most cases are mild and resolve on their own or with antihistamines, but hives can occasionally indicate a serious allergic reaction requiring urgent care.
What it looks like
Raised, red or pink welts (wheals) of varying sizes, from small dots to large patches. They have well-defined edges and may have a pale center. Hives are characteristically migratory - they may disappear from one area and reappear in another within hours. A key feature is the 'blanch test': pressing on a hive causes it to turn white briefly. On darker skin tones, hives may appear skin-colored or slightly darker rather than red.
Causes
Viral infections (the most common cause in young children - even a common cold can trigger hives)
Medication reactions (antibiotics such as amoxicillin are a common trigger)
Insect bites or stings
Contact with irritants (detergent, pet dander, pollen)
Temperature changes (heat or cold exposure)
Treatment
Remove the trigger if identifiable (discontinue a new food, change detergent, etc.)
An age-appropriate antihistamine (like cetirizine or diphenhydramine) can be given - always confirm dosing with your pediatrician
Apply cool, damp cloths to itchy areas for relief
Dress baby in loose, soft clothing to minimize irritation
A lukewarm oatmeal bath can soothe itchy skin
Most cases of hives resolve within 24-48 hours
When to call your pediatrician
SEEK IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY CARE if hives are accompanied by difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips/tongue/throat, wheezing, vomiting, or limpness (signs of anaphylaxis)
Hives occur repeatedly after eating a specific food (your pediatrician should evaluate for food allergy)
Hives last more than 6 weeks (chronic urticaria - needs medical evaluation)
Baby has hives with fever, joint swelling, or appears unwell
Common ages: Newborn period (first 2-4 weeks); also common in dry/cold weather at any age
Peeling, flaking skin in newborns is extremely common and completely normal, especially in babies born past their due date. In the womb, your baby was protected by vernix caseosa (a waxy coating), and once exposed to air, the outer layer of skin naturally dries and peels. This process requires no treatment and resolves on its own. Dry skin in older babies is also common, particularly during winter months.
What it looks like
In newborns: peeling, flaking skin that may look dry or cracked, most noticeable on the hands, feet, and ankles. The skin underneath is soft and healthy. In post-date babies, peeling may be more extensive. In older babies: dry, rough patches that may appear anywhere on the body, often worse on cheeks, arms, and legs during cold or dry weather.
Causes
Normal transition from the fluid environment of the womb to air (in newborns)
Post-date birth (babies born after 40 weeks often have more pronounced peeling)
Low humidity and cold weather (in older babies)
Overbathing or using harsh soaps that strip natural skin oils
Underlying eczema (if dry skin is persistent, itchy, and in characteristic locations)
Treatment
For newborn peeling: no treatment needed - it will resolve naturally within 2-3 weeks
Do not pull or peel off flaking skin - let it come off on its own
For older babies with dry skin: apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer (cream or ointment, not lotion) after baths
Limit baths to every other day or every 2-3 days; use lukewarm water and gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
Use a humidifier in your baby's room during dry winter months
Avoid products with fragrances, dyes, or alcohol, which can worsen dryness
When to call your pediatrician
Dry skin is persistently red, itchy, or inflamed (may be eczema - see your pediatrician)
Skin cracks are deep or bleeding
Peeling is accompanied by redness, swelling, or fever
Newborn skin peeling has not resolved by 4-6 weeks of age
Common ages: Present at birth or appearing within the first few weeks of life
Birthmarks are colored spots or areas on the skin that are present at birth or develop shortly after. They are very common - most babies have at least one. The vast majority of birthmarks are harmless and many fade on their own over time. There are two main types: vascular (caused by blood vessels) and pigmented (caused by clusters of pigment cells).
What it looks like
Salmon patches (stork bites/angel kisses): flat, pink or red patches on the eyelids, forehead, or back of the neck - present in up to 80% of newborns. Mongolian spots: flat, blue-gray patches on the lower back and buttocks, most common in babies with darker skin tones. Hemangiomas (strawberry marks): bright red, raised bumps that appear in the first few weeks, grow for several months, then slowly shrink over years. Port-wine stains: flat, pink, red, or purple patches that do not fade and grow proportionally with the child. Cafe-au-lait spots: flat, light brown patches of various sizes.
Causes
Vascular birthmarks (salmon patches, hemangiomas, port-wine stains) are caused by extra blood vessels clustered near the skin surface
Pigmented birthmarks (Mongolian spots, cafe-au-lait spots, moles) are caused by clusters of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes)
Birthmarks are not caused by anything the parent did or did not do during pregnancy
Most birthmarks occur randomly and are not inherited
Treatment
Salmon patches: no treatment needed - most fade by age 1-2 (neck patches may persist)
Mongolian spots: no treatment needed - most fade by school age
Hemangiomas: most resolve on their own by age 5-10; monitoring is usually sufficient. Hemangiomas near the eyes, nose, mouth, or diaper area may need treatment with propranolol (a beta-blocker)
Port-wine stains: do not fade and may darken over time. Pulsed dye laser treatment may be offered for cosmetic reasons
Cafe-au-lait spots: no treatment needed, but report them to your pediatrician
When to call your pediatrician
A hemangioma is growing rapidly, is near the eye/nose/mouth/ear, or is ulcerating (open sore)
Your baby has 6 or more cafe-au-lait spots (may be associated with neurofibromatosis - your pediatrician should evaluate)
A port-wine stain is on the forehead or near the eye (may be associated with Sturge-Weber syndrome)
Any birthmark changes color, shape, or texture unexpectedly, or begins to bleed
A large or unusual mole is present at birth (congenital melanocytic nevus)
Common ages: More common in toddlers (12 months and older), but can occur at any age
Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm - it is a fungal infection of the skin. It is caused by dermatophytes, fungi that live on the dead outer layer of skin. Ringworm is mildly contagious and can be spread through direct skin contact, contaminated objects (towels, clothing), or contact with pets (especially cats and dogs). It is easily treated with antifungal medications.
What it looks like
A round or oval, scaly patch with a raised, red, ring-shaped border and clearer skin in the center - giving it the characteristic 'ring' appearance. The border may be bumpy or blistered. The patch slowly expands outward while the center clears. On the scalp (tinea capitis), it may cause scaly patches with hair loss. It can appear anywhere on the body and may be itchy.
Common ages: 6 months to 5 years (peak in toddlers)
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral illness caused by coxsackievirus (most often A16) or enterovirus 71. It is highly contagious and spreads through saliva, nasal secretions, blister fluid, and stool. Outbreaks are most common in summer and early fall. While uncomfortable, HFMD is almost always mild and resolves on its own within 7-10 days. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment.
What it looks like
Starts with a fever, reduced appetite, sore throat, and general malaise for 1-2 days. Then small, red spots develop that become blisters or ulcers: in the mouth (tongue, gums, inside cheeks - painful), on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet (small, flat or raised red spots or blisters), and sometimes on the buttocks, knees, and elbows. Mouth sores can be very painful and may cause drooling and reluctance to eat or drink.
Causes
Coxsackievirus A16 (most common cause)
Enterovirus 71 (less common but can be more severe)
Spread through direct contact with nasal or throat secretions, saliva, fluid from blisters, or stool
Incubation period is 3-6 days
Most contagious during the first week of illness, but virus can shed in stool for weeks
Treatment
There is no specific treatment - HFMD must run its course (typically 7-10 days)
Manage pain and fever with age-appropriate doses of acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil, for babies 6 months and older)
Encourage cold fluids - cold milk, ice pops, smoothies, and cold water can soothe mouth sores
Avoid acidic, salty, or spicy foods that will sting mouth sores
Watch for dehydration: ensure adequate wet diapers (at least 4-6 per day); offer small, frequent sips
Fingernail and toenail peeling may occur 3-6 weeks after illness - this is normal and harmless
When to call your pediatrician
Baby is not drinking enough fluids - signs of dehydration include fewer than 4 wet diapers in 24 hours, no tears when crying, dry mouth, sunken fontanelle
Fever lasts more than 3 days or is higher than 102.2F (39C) in a baby under 3 months
Baby is extremely lethargic, difficult to arouse, or inconsolable
Symptoms worsen after the first few days instead of improving
Baby develops a stiff neck, severe headache, or unusual irritability (rare but possible signs of viral meningitis)
1Bathe less frequently. Babies do not need daily baths. Every 2-3 days is enough for most infants, with spot-cleaning in between. Overbathing strips natural skin oils.
2Use fragrance-free everything. Choose fragrance-free soaps, detergents, wipes, and lotions. Fragrances are one of the most common irritants for baby skin.
3Moisturize after every bath. Apply a thick cream or ointment (not lotion) immediately after bathing while skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture.
4Dress in breathable fabrics. Cotton is best for baby skin. Avoid wool and synthetic materials directly against the skin, which can cause irritation.
5Protect from the sun. Babies under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight. For babies over 6 months, use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen on exposed areas and dress in sun-protective clothing.
6When in doubt, call your pediatrician. Most baby rashes are harmless, but if you are ever unsure or your baby seems unwell, a quick call to your doctor can provide peace of mind.
