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Neonatal Rashes

Neonatal Rashes - Causes and Risk Factors

Neonatal Rashes - Diagnosis

Neonatal Rashes - Treatments

Seborrheic Dermatitis:

Scalp:

  • Wash your baby’s hair daily with a mild, tear-free baby shampoo.
  • In babies with thick scales on the scalp, application of olive oil 30 minutes to 1 hour before rinsing off with shampoo can be helpful in softening the scales.
  • If the scales do not loosen easily, you can use a soft brush or towel to gently remove the scales after it is softened.
  • Do not pick the scales as this may increase the risk of infection.
  • For cases that are more severe, your doctor may recommend an anti-fungal shampoo, mild steroid lotion and a moisturiser.

Rest of body:

  • Cleanse with a gentle soap or moisturising bath oil daily.
  • Anti-inflammatory creams such as a mild topical steroid lotions, anti-fungal creams and moisturisers may be prescribed.
  • Increase frequency of diaper changes if nappy area is affected.
  • If the rashes do not improve after a few weeks, please schedule an appointment with the KKH Paediatric Dermatology Clinic to reassess your child’s condition.

Neonatal Acne:

Neonatal acne is usually self-limiting, and will resolve after 3-6 months of age. Neonatal acne does not scar.

Treatment is usually not necessary except in patients with extensive lesions.

In rare cases where the condition persists beyond 6 months of age, further investigations may be necessary to exclude other medical causes. This will be reviewed and decided by your physician.

Diaper Dermatitis:

Frequent diaper changes or leaving the child out of diapers for short periods of time would be helpful.

Gentle cleansing with tepid or warm water, and a soft cloth. If soap is desired, a mild, fragrance-free soap substitute or bath oil is recommended.

Apply a moisturiser or a barrier cream to the skin before each diaper change.

Ensure the diaper area is air dried completely before putting on the diaper.

If the skin is very inflamed or red, a mild topical steroid will be prescribed.

If candida yeast is suspected, a topical anti-fungal cream may be prescribed.

If secondary bacterial infection is suspected, topical antibiotics or a course of oral antibiotics for 5 to 7 days is prescribed.

The information above is also available for download in pdf format.

Neonatal Rashes - Preparing for surgery

Neonatal Rashes - Post-surgery care

Neonatal Rashes - Other Information

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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