Four Common Childhood Skin Conditions - What You Need to Know
Written by Mr.Jongruk on 4:27 AMBy Jodee Reid
A baby's skin is less resistant to bacteria and other harmful substances in the environment. Natural substances like sweating, dribbling and passing urine can be irritating to the skin causing rashes and redness. Although a baby is not usually dirty, it is necessary to cleanse and hydrate the skin to prevent such irritation.
A newborn baby's skin can be very dry and prone to peeling because the skins oil content at this stage is very low which may also contribute to minor outbreaks and common rashes. A baby's skin is also much thinner and more fragile than the skin of an adult so needs to be treated accordingly.
Below I have outlined four common childhood skin conditions;
1. Cradle Cap
A form of seborrhea dermatitis usually found on the scalp, face and sometimes on other areas of the body. Cradle cap is simply a build up of sweat and oil produced by overactive glands. The build up may cause the skin to become irritated and an overgrowth of yeast may occur. It is essential to shampoo the hair with a mild shampoo to prevent cradle cap from occurring.
2. Diaper Rash
Diaper rash may be the cause of either yeast or bacteria in the diaper area combined with excess moisture, chafing and rubbing and skin contact with faeces and urine.
To prevent diaper rash it is essential to cleanse the area at each diaper change. Leave the diaper off for a short time between changing and change the diaper more regularly if your baby is prone to rash.
3. Milia and Infant Acne
Pink or white spots on the face of a newborn baby are common due to the baby retaining some of its mother's hormones. These will usually disappear with time so it is best to leave them alone.
4. Eczema
Infantile eczema or atopic dermatitis is a genetically determined condition. The skin may be red, irritated and scaly. Eczema is usually found on the face, behind the ears and knees and in the neck and elbow creases. There can be a number of triggers for an eczema outbreak including; dry skin, stress, heat, allergens such as dust mites, pollen and per danger. It is essential to keep the skin clean, dry and hydrated. Keep the child's fingernails short to prevent scratching and possible infection. In the case of severe eczema and re-occurring eczema it is advisable to consult your doctor.
This article has been written by Jodee Reid, a qualified esthetician and Director of BabyBaby Skin Care For more details on these skin conditions and how to prevent and treat them visit http://www.babybaby.co.nz
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