Newborn Skin

Home » Newborn Skin » Conditions

Conditions

The following skin conditions are some of the normal physiological characteristics in newborns.

Milia
Milia is a condition that produces tiny white bumps on the face under the surface of the skin. The bumps are caused by the retention of old skin cells and oily material within hair follicles. They occur in up to half of all infants and typically resolve spontaneously within the first month of life.

Epstein's Pearls
Epstein's Pearls are the oral equivalent of milia. They appear as small white or yellowish papules (bumps) along the gums or hard palate. They can be found in more than two-thirds of infants. Epstein's Pearls typically disappear spontaneously within a month.

Sebaceous Gland Hyperplasia
These shiny, yellow bumps on the face are caused by enlarged sebaceous (oil) glands. They are a natural response to the maternal hormones of pregnancy and usually resolve on their own within a few weeks.

Acne Neonatorum
Because they have not yet involuted to their normal childhood size, the sebaceous (oil) glands of a newborn child are sensitive to the effects of hormones acquired from the mother during pregnancy. This sensitivity can lead to a variety of transient skin conditions in the infant during the first weeks of life. Although its exact cause is not completely understood, infant acne is one such condition. It typically peaks at about age 2 months and rarely requires treatment.

Erythema Toxicum
A fairly common, benign, and self-limiting skin eruption that typically occurs within the first few days after birth, erythema toxicum is characterized by blotchy red spots on the skin with overlying white or yellow papules or pustules. These lesions may be few or numerous. The eruption typically resolves within a few days. The cause of erythema toxicum is unknown. Hypersensitivity to detergents in bedsheets and clothing is sometimes suspected, but the connection remains unproven. Because the eruption is transient and self-limiting, no treatment is indicated.

Sucking Blisters
These blisters, seen on fingers, hands, wrists, and even the arms of newborns, are caused by vigorous sucking of the infant in the mothers womb (in utero). No treatment is needed, as they disappear rapidly without consequences.

Transient Neonatal Pustular Melanosis
This benign, self-limiting eruption usually appears at birth as tiny clear or pus-filled blisters. Due to their superficial nature, they rupture easily, often leaving a small ring of scale. These marks evolve into light brown patches that fade within a few months. No treatment is indicated.

Cradle Cap
Cradle cap, or seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, is a waxy or greasy scaling that appears on a red base over the scalp in infants during the first few months of life. The condition sometimes spreads to the face, especially around the eyebrows and nose, and to the ears. With simple treatment, this usually disappears by 8 to 12 months. Treatment consists of frequent shampooing. If the scales are thick and resistant, warm mineral or olive oil can be gently rubbed in. The hair should be brushed or combed at least daily to help loosen the scales. Occasionally, medications are prescribed for stubborn areas.

Diaper Rash
Diaper dermatitis (diaper rash) is the most common skin disorder seen in infants and toddlers. It can be caused by a variety of factors, the most common of which is prolonged contact with urine or feces in a soiled diaper, causing irritation to the skin. The irritated skin sometimes becomes infected with the yeast candida. Chafing or friction also can worsen the problem.

The rash responds well to frequent diaper changes and by allowing the child to go without diapers for periods of time daily. Baby powder or cornstarch can be used as drying agents to help reduce moisture and friction. Candida should be treated with any of the various anticandidal creams prescribed by a doctor. If evidence of candida appears in the mouth (thrush) or the anal area, an oral medication may be prescribed as well. Mild cortisone creams can be applied for severe irritations, but prolonged use should be avoided.

© 1998-2008 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Newborn Skin Resources

	Join Our Newborn Skin Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
Advertising Disclaimer To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer