Recognize 4 Skin Diseases in Babies that Parents Need to Know

“There are several skin diseases in babies that parents need to know. One of them is diaper rash as the most common skin condition in babies.

Halodoc, Jakarta – Babies do not yet have an immune system that is not optimal, thus making them susceptible to various diseases. However, not only the immune system is not optimal. It should be noted that the epidermal layer of the skin of babies under one year old also cannot function effectively. As a result, babies are also susceptible to a number of skin disorders or diseases.

Therefore, parents need to know what skin problems and their common symptoms affect babies. The goal is that if the baby has these problems, the mother can immediately check her condition to the doctor. So, what are the skin diseases in babies that parents need to know?

Skin Diseases in Babies that Need to be Known

Here are some skin diseases in babies that parents need to know:

1. Diaper rash

Diaper rash, also known as diaper dermatitis, is the most common skin condition seen in babies. This condition occurs when moisture in the baby’s diaper area causes irritation, or the growth of fungi or bacteria that usually live in small numbers on the skin. To prevent or treat diaper rash, keep your baby’s diaper area clean and dry with frequent diaper changes. Mothers can also apply ointments or creams that contain zinc oxide or petroleum jelly to protect the baby’s skin inside the diaper.

2. Eczema

Eczema or atopic dermatitis can make a child’s skin itchy and then red, irritated, and dry. The occurrence of eczema in infants is related to differences in the skin barrier or skin barrier in children with adult skin, and immune systems that are still sensitive, so they are prone to triggering infections and dry skin.

Therefore, it is important for parents to avoid contact between the baby’s skin and certain surfaces or things. If the baby has eczema, the mother can relieve the symptoms by bathing the baby in warm water and moisturizing the baby’s skin regularly. Especially after bathing or being exposed to water.

3. Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis can occur when children have reactions to allergens or irritants. Allergens may include pollen or the use of certain medications. Meanwhile, irritants (irritants) may include perfumes, soaps, cleansers and paints. Contact dermatitis causes an itchy skin rash that can sometimes be painful. Treatment includes moisturizers, anti-itch creams and topical (or sometimes oral) steroids.

4. Chickenpox

Because they have an immune system that is not yet optimal, babies are susceptible to various viral infections. Well, one of the skin diseases that can also occur is chickenpox, which is caused by the Varicella zoster virus. In its early stages of symptoms, chickenpox generally causes a rash on the baby’s face, chest, and back.

In later stages, the symptoms will also spread throughout their body. The rash turns into itchy, fluid-filled blisters and then scabs. Chickenpox usually goes away on its own in one to two weeks. Mothers can treat the symptoms of chickenpox in children with antihistamines and acetaminophen.

Those are some skin diseases in babies that parents need to know. Now, considering that the baby’s immunity and skin are still vulnerable, it is important to constantly monitor the baby’s condition. If your baby suddenly has symptoms of a skin disease such as a rash and redness that doesn’t go away, get their condition checked immediately.

Through the application Halodoc, the mother can make a hospital appointment to check the baby’s condition. Of course, without the need to queue or wait long. So what are you waiting for? come on, downloads Halodoc right now!

Reference:

Mayo Clinic. Accessed 2022. Skin Conditions in Children.

NHS. Retrieved 2022. Rashes in babies and children.