Infants skin irritation causes and treatment

Skin irritation problems in infants

1| Diaper rashes

It is the most common skin irritation problem in infants. It is a red allergic formation in the diaper area, especially between the skin folds. The skin appears irritated and slightly swollen. These ulcerations occur due to skin irritation from urine and feces, when the child remains in the diaper for a long time, or because of diarrhea, or because of a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection that may occur in the diaper area. To treat diaper irritation, using a barrier cream if the infant’s skin is sensitive is preferable, and clean the diaper area with water. Change the diaper frequently, and do not leave the diaper on for long. If the irritation is severe, you should see a doctor to prescribe a treatment ointment that suits your child’s condition.

2| Infant eczema

It is a complex condition that affects many infants, and they suffer from it for long periods. Eczema is characterized by dryness and irritation of the infant's skin, and the severity of the inflammation varies from time to time. Doctors do not yet know the causes of infant eczema, but there may be a genetic factor that has an influence. Eczema may appear due to a food allergy or other allergy, which can be treated by moisturizing the infant’s skin with fragrance-free medical ointments and avoiding the triggers of eczema if it appears from certain foods or contact with certain things. If the eczema is severe, you should see a doctor to prescribe a medicinal ointment.

3| Severe dry skin

Many infants suffer from dehydrated skin, which leads to peeling and sometimes irritation and redness. The infant’s skin is very sensitive and does not produce enough moisturizing oils, making it vulnerable to severe dryness, especially when exposed to hot, dry air. Or when bathing the child with hot water, and using bath products that may lead to dehydration. It is essential to dry the baby's skin after bathing, moisturize it, and use unique baby care products that are safe for their skin.

4| Food allergy

It is perhaps one of the most common causes of skin irritation in infants, with 6% of children suffering from food allergies. Food allergies occur when the immune system senses danger from certain foods and launches a defensive reaction that may appear in skin irritation problems. The most common allergens are eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, wheat, and soy. The best way to avoid a severe allergic reaction is to avoid the allergen when it is known.

5| Sunburn

Exposing an infant's skin directly to the sun and not using a sunscreen product suitable for infant skin can cause burns and irritation. Infants' skin can become red, hot, itchy, painful, and sometimes swollen.

6| Infant acne

It is not a skin irritation but a common skin problem in infants and newborns. These pimples look like teenage acne. They usually appear in infants at two weeks old, and experts attribute the reason to the fetus's exposure to the mother's hormones while it is in the womb. These pimples usually go away without treatment after a few weeks or the first months after birth.

7| Cradle cap

A very common issue, especially with newborns, it is annoying but not serious and usually goes away after a few weeks. It is essential to consult a doctor to learn how to deal with it and to avoid irritating the baby's sensitive skin.

Steps to protect infant skin from irritation

• Change the baby's diaper regularly.
• Use unique washing products for sensitive skin.
• Keeping the baby's skin clean, especially the delicate skin folds.
• Gently dry the baby's skin after bathing.
• Protect the infant from sweating, and do not wear several layers or cover him too much.
• Avoid using skin products that are not intended for infants, especially those that contain perfumes.
• Use sunscreen.
• Dress the child in cotton clothes made from natural fabrics, and avoid synthetic fabrics.