Spot your baby’s skin condition

Take action to solve minor skin irritations with expert advise from the British Skin Foundation.

Eczema
• Eczema is a red, scaly, itchy, inflamed rash that affects about one in five children.
• Treat by applying a fragrance-free emollient (moisturiser) daily, every few hours if necessary, to help protect the skin.


Milk Spots
• Some newborn babies have small white spots on the face. Sometimes known as ‘milk spots’ these may be enlarged sebaceous glands, or tiny retention cysts (milia). They are common, harmless, and should be left to disappear by themselves.

Nappy rash
• Babies can also suffer from sore, irritated skin on the bottom, which is called nappy rash.
• To prevent nappy rash never leave a wet or dirty nappy on for longer than necessary. Cleanse the skin at each change, preferably with cotton wool and water, and use a simple nappy cream as a barrier.

Cradle cap
• Cradle cap forms greasy, scaly patches on the scalp. It’s usually only temporarily and will not harm or distress your baby as it is generally not itchy or sore.
• Treat it gently shampooing the scalp daily with a mild baby shampoo and applying an emollient cream available from your pharmacist.
• In severe cases your doctor may prescribe an ointment.


Did you know? Washing powder is rarely the cause of skin problems. It only causes skin irritation if not thoroughly rinsed out of clothing. Most washing machines rinse more thoroughly than hand washing.