Throughout our lives, we’ve heard the expression “as smooth as a baby’s skin.” This saying comes exactly from the delicacy and softness that all babies’ skin has. But it is very common for babies to develop skin irritations and allergies, precisely because of this sensitivity. Thus, their skin can go from soft to rough, with bumps and extreme irritation.
There are several factors that can cause this irritability in a baby’s skin. As soon as symptoms appear, they should be investigated, not only to know the cause and determine the treatment—which is sometimes simply removing the allergen—but also because it causes significant discomfort and irritability for the baby.
Why do allergies occur?
Allergy happens when the baby’s immune system reacts excessively to a substance it has come into contact with. The reaction can show not only through signs on the skin, but also as sneezing and allergic coughs1.
It is common for younger babies to have skin allergies caused by certain brands of disposable diapers, scented hygiene products, and those with strong fragrances or dyes—even some made specifically for babies. That’s why it is recommended that only glycerin-based and neutral products be used during the first months of life.
Features of the allergy
Normally, skin allergies present as reddish spots, itchy and flaky areas and, in some cases, small blisters or red bumps on the baby’s skin. All of these cause great irritability2 because of excessive itchiness.
Main causes of allergy in babies
The main reasons for allergies in babies are:
Excessive heat
Many mothers end up overdressing their babies, causing the pores of the skin to be covered up and not breathe. This leads to the appearance of the well-known heat rash. Heat rash usually appears in the hottest parts of the body such as the neck, under the arms, and around the buttocks and genital area.
Fabrics
When shopping for baby layette, we see countless cute and frilly clothes, but are they ideal for the baby? Clothes made of wool, nylon, and synthetic materials are often major causes of skin allergies in babies. These fabrics are very warm, and nylon and other synthetics do not allow the skin to breathe properly, also causing build-up of heat. Choose clothing made of cotton, as it is more comfortable and not as warm as those mentioned.
Excess sun exposure
Sunbathing is recommended by all pediatricians, but only during the milder times of the day. Babies have more sensitive skin, and if exposed to strong sun, they can be at serious risk, such as sunstroke. Another issue is overexposure to the sun, which can also cause heat rash and skin eruptions, as excessive heat causes the skin’s pores to react by breaking out all over the body.
Other factors
Skin allergies can also be caused by other factors. Some examples are insect bites, allergy to medications currently being used, food poisoning—which can happen even through breastfeeding if the mother eats something that the baby is allergic to—foods with dyes like Danoninho, as well as animal fur, dust mites, and dust.
How to treat baby skin allergy?
First and foremost, your baby’s pediatrician should be consulted immediately3. In most cases, diagnosis can be made just by looking. Usually, the use of corticosteroid creams and antihistamines is recommended, together with moisturizers formulated for babies.
Using these medications will cause the irritation and itching to stop immediately. However, it is crucial to discover the cause of the allergy so it can be removed and promptly treated. If not treated properly, skin lesions can become infected.
Home tip to relieve itching
Wash 250 grams of melon, 50 grams of cucumber, and 20 grams of watercress thoroughly and blend in a food processor, blender, or juicer. Apply the mixture on the baby’s affected skin for 15 minutes. Then, remove with water and hypoallergenic soap and dry the skin thoroughly. This treatment is effective not just for relief from itching, but also for preventing allergies.
See also: Contact Dermatitis – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
