Parents of newborn babies typically under the age of 3 months, find themselves noticing a skin condition on their newborns. Seborrheic dermatitis is very common and is the result of overproducing oil glands in the face and scalp. Conditions like cold or warm weather can also contribute. Hormones from a breastfeeding mother can also contribute to seborrheic dermatitis.
When seborrhea is found on the babies skin, it can be initially confused with baby acne. However, seborrheic dermatitis can originate in the form of tiny bumps on the face and evolve into red and yellow crusty patches. In a matter of days, the condition can worsen and become more severe and worrisome. Your dermatologist or pediatrician will most likely recommend a topical steroid hydrocortisone 1% to be used a few times daily until the rash and crust disappears. Seborrhea can be found on a newborn’s forehead between or covering the eyebrows, the cheeks and other prominent areas of the face.
This condition can also be noticed in the scalp, by its dry flakes which appear to look like dandruff, but in babies is called cradle cap. Cradle cap is identifiable by scaly yellow patches on the scalp. Shampoos for babies’ cradle cap should be used persistently until the cradle cap disappears. Shampoos including ingredients such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, 2% pyrithione zinc, or salicylic acid or tar-based shampoos will most likely be recommended for your little one.
If your little one shows signs of this medical skin condition, schedule your appointment today at Skin and Cancer Institute. Diagnosis and treatment are readily available.