Nothing matches the soft, clear, supple and blemish free skin of an infant, but then even babies are seldom that blessed. Skin ailments are common in infants, as their skin is very sensitive. Also, an infant’s physiology is not the same as that of an adult. It takes time for an infant’s skin to adjust to the world around.

During this settling period, some infants display all kinds of colour changes, spots, blotches, swellings, rashes and secretions, many of which look very peculiar.

These conditions are not acute and by and large go away on their own, but they can be distressing for babies and can create panic in the already anxious parents.

It is thus, of utmost importance for parents to educate themselves on conditions that may affect their infants. Skin ailments in infants are a practicality and being able to conclude about the nature of the ailment can help avoid apprehensions in the hyper parents, that too when they need all the peace.

The following list describes some of the commonest of these phenomena and tells you why they happen, what they mean and what to do. If you still need reassurance or if you are not sure what you see matches what is described on the list, then visit your doctor.

Nappy Rash

Nappy rash can mean anything from slight redness, to severe inflammation, with sores or pustules. Soft new skin may react to toiletries even if they are labeled “hypoallergenic”; warm skin left damp is liable to chapping; acid urine stings and makes it worse and the area is a perfect breeding ground for infections. The answer, then, is to use simple, or no, toiletries (warm water is wonderful stuff) and keep your baby’s bottom as clean, dry and aired as you can.

Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is a common condition for babies, where a really thick cap shaped layer of brownish scales form a crusty 'cap' on the scalp. It sometimes spreads to the baby’s eyebrows and behind the ears. Cradle cap doesn't hurt the baby but can be a nuisance. You may try a special shampoo, ointment or oil which will help loosen and remove the crusts.

Eczema / Flaky Skin

Some babies may suffer from dry, flaky skin, particularly in the folds of the skin. This condition is usually short-lived and goes away on its own, particularly if it is due to dry, cold weather. To make the infant more at ease, apply a fragrance-free baby moisturizer to the affected area. Make the baths short and sweet and less frequent. Also, try to utilize less soap or cleansers as they aggravate the problem.

Infant Acne

Infants often develop acne on their nose, forehead, chin, and cheeks. Many babies, particularly boys, develop red pimples and whiteheads on the cheeks and nose due to the high levels of male hormones called androgens. These hormones stimulate oil production to the baby's undeveloped oil glands, leading to the growth of bacteria and the development of acne. Infant acne usually goes away with time, but if it persists, topical applications could be tried.

Heat Rash

During summers, the pores of the baby's sweat glands get bunged and form tiny red bumps that look like pimples. There are usually several of them together in one area. They itch and are very distressing. Heat rash lasts for a couple of days. To get rid of it keep the infants skin clean, stay away from lotions and use Hydrocortisone cream, if severe.

Erythema Toxicum

This skin ailment is characterized by red flat blotches that appear on the trunk and face of newborns, generally during the first five days of their life and do not require any special treatment. They are harmless and usually disappear on their own within a week.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection and causes blisters on the face and hands of the infant. Avoid scratching as they spread. Antibiotics are the only solution for this problem.

Sunburn

Infants should always be protected from the sun with a hat and a SPF 30 sunscreen. If still the child gets sun burnt, soothe it with an aloe vera based cream.

Bug Bites

Bug bites and stings appear as raised bumps. Mosquito bites are very common in infants as the bugs are attracted to the hemoglobin in infant blood. If the sting is visible scrap it out with a sterile pin and apply cold compress to relieve pain. Later apply an over the counter itch relief cream.

Lastly remember that infant skin problems often correct themselves. Only some skin conditions require special treatment. Your parental gut feeling will at the end of the day tell you when you need to take your infant to the doctor.