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Newborn Skin Changes Are Completely Normal
Newborn baby skin—everyone thinks that babies should have this smooth, soft, clear skin from day one, and that's just not the case. A baby's skin goes through a lot of changes as they are exposed to the world, and they lose hormones that they got from mom through the placenta and as their own oil glands and skin pigment cells turn on.
Cradle Cap: The Flaky, Yellow Rash on Baby’s Scalp
One rash that many babies get is called seborrhea, but most people know it as cradle cap. It's that flaky, yellow, scaly rash on their heads that shows up at a few weeks old, that can even extend down to their eyebrows and the sides of their face and on to their cheeks and even to the top of their chest. While we're not sure why some babies get it and others don't, it's thought to be due to the skin having too much oil produced by the oil glands near the hair follicles. It's not contagious, and it's not because your baby is dirty or you are not washing your baby enough. In fact, babies should not be bathed more than two to three times a week when they're first born. If cradle cap is really bad, your pediatrician may recommend anti-dandruff shampoos to be used very carefully, one to two times a week, or over-the-counter-strength hydrocortisone.
Baby Acne: A Temporary Skin Condition
Newborn acne is another skin issue that some babies get and some babies don't. Baby acne also shows up a few weeks after they're born, but it goes away by 4 months old. The current theory is that it is because of the hormone withdrawal because they aren't getting those hormones that they got through the placenta before they were born. There's really no good treatment for this, and the severity, luckily, does not indicate how bad acne will be when the baby becomes a teenager.
While baby skin will eventually become nice and soft, the first few weeks to months can be a little rough. Know that many of your baby's skin changes are normal and will go away in time.
Straightforward Answers to the Everyday Parenting Questions You Need Most.
Helping Your Newborn Get Through Painful Pooping
Straining, crying, and turning red without producing a bowel movement can leave parents worried that something is seriously wrong—but in many cases, it is a normal developmental phase called infant dyschezia.
Finding the Right Formula for Your Baby
Choosing a baby formula does not come with a one-size-fits-all answer. Learn how to spot what works best for your baby and why your pediatrician’s guidance can help you choose with confidence.
What to Expect When Your Baby Starts Teething
Every baby teethes differently—some barely notice it, while others act like it is the end of the world. From timelines to treatment tips, learn what to expect and when to ask your pediatrician or dentist for help.
How to Accurately Take a Baby's Temperature
When your baby feels warm, it does not always mean they have a fever. A baby's age and how you take their temperature matter more than you think.
Your Newborn's Skin
Newborns often do not have the perfect skin we expect. Learn what causes these conditions and why frequent bathing is not recommended for newborns.
Is Your Newborn Hungry? Look for These Signs
New parents often wait for their baby to cry before feeding, but earlier signs can be spotted. Understanding these signals can help you more effectively address your baby’s needs and enhance feeding times.