Babies are not immune to skin problems. Paediatrician Victor Grech gives Stephanie Fsadni some advice on how to treat common rashes and conditions.
Babies may develop a myriad skin conditions during the first few months of life but most are no cause for worry and may only need simple treatments or solutions, says paediatrician Victor Grech.
Newborns commonly have very dry, peeling skin after birth or traces of vermix, a white waxy coating that develops on the skins of foetuses.
“Sometimes there is no need to do anything because these conditions will go away on their own. Otherwise, a topical emollient [moisturising] cream is enough in most instances,” says Prof. Grech.
As regards daily care, if the baby’s skin is very dry, one should use liquid soap and apply moisturiser at least twice daily.
One of the most common rashes among babies is nappy rash, which often develops due to the skin’s contact with urine and stool. This can be prevented or treated by changing nappies as often as possible and applying barrier cream. However, if the rash deteriorates, one should speak to a paediatrician. An anti-fungal cream is often prescribed in such cases.
Eczema may occur in children over three months of age and appears most often on the scalp, face, trunk, elbows and knees. Intensive moisturisation and a soap that does not dry the skin is required. Other topical creams and medicine, consisting of steroids and antihistamines, may be prescribed by a doctor.
“These have to be taken under supervision, lest there is permanent damage to the skin,” advices the doctor.
Now that summer is approaching, babies are highly likely to suffer from heat rash.
“Some people tend to overdress their baby. Sometimes you see babies with scarves in the middle of summer,” laments Prof. Grech.
To avoid this, there is one simple treatment: dress them less.
Other rashes may be the result of some infection, such as chicken pox. In such cases, speak to a doctor.
As regards daily skincare, there is a vast range of baby products on the market.
“It is essential to choose the right kind of soap and an adequate moisturiser that matches the baby’s skin type,” stresses Prof. Grech.
As the temperature gets higher, another important product is sunscreen or “better still, keep babies out of the sun”. The beach is a particularly perilous place for them.
“Three hours under an umbrella at the beach is equivalent to one hour of direct sunlight,” he says, “due to the reflection of the water and sand. Remember glass is made out of sand! But if you cannot avoid the beach, protect babies well with sunscreen and UV-resistant clothing.”