Baby Skin Rashes: Eczema vs. Heat Rash in Newborns - Pediatrics

Share to:

Neonatal skin


Dr.
Zhao: My baby is currently one month old, but was born at 37 weeks.
Recently, red rashes appeared on the face, distributed on the forehead and both cheeks.
I am unsure if this is atopic dermatitis.
How can I differentiate between common heat rash and atopic dermatitis? Thank you for your response.

Xiu Hui, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/08

Dr. Zhao Yongkang reply Pediatrics


Dear Ms.
Hsiu-Hui,
Hello, your baby has developed a rash on the face, which may be commonly referred to as "heat rash" or "prickly heat." This condition is caused by skin changes due to excessive heat and humidity.
It occurs when the skin is in prolonged contact with sweat and the sweat glands are not functioning properly, most commonly affecting the face and back.
Typically, keeping the baby cool and well-ventilated will lead to a quick improvement in symptoms, and there is usually no need to apply ointments.
For more severe cases, a heat rash cream can be used.
It is advisable for the baby to wear cotton, loose-fitting, and moisture-absorbing clothing to prevent the occurrence of heat rash.
I apologize for the delayed response and thank you for your letter.
Wishing you peace,
Dr.
He-Shun Wang
Director of Pediatrics
Hsinchu Hospital

Reply Date: 2004/10/08

More Info


When it comes to distinguishing between eczema (atopic dermatitis) and heat rash (miliaria) in newborns, it's essential to understand the characteristics and causes of each condition. Both can present as red rashes on the skin, but they have different underlying mechanisms and treatment approaches.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that often begins in infancy. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. In newborns, eczema typically appears as red, scaly patches that can be found on the face, particularly on the cheeks and forehead, as well as on the scalp and behind the ears. The rash may also be crusty or weepy, and it can be exacerbated by environmental factors such as heat, humidity, and allergens. Eczema is often associated with a family history of allergies, asthma, or hay fever, indicating a genetic predisposition to atopic conditions.

Heat Rash (Miliaria), on the other hand, occurs when sweat glands become blocked, leading to the retention of sweat under the skin. This condition is more common in hot and humid weather. Heat rash typically presents as small, red bumps or blisters, often in areas where clothing fits tightly or where sweat accumulates, such as the face, neck, and back. Unlike eczema, heat rash usually resolves quickly once the baby is cooled down and the skin is allowed to breathe. It does not typically cause significant itching or discomfort.

To differentiate between the two, consider the following factors:
1. Location and Appearance: Eczema often appears on the face, especially on the cheeks and forehead, and may also affect the scalp and other areas. It tends to be dry and scaly. Heat rash usually appears in areas prone to sweating and is characterized by small red bumps or blisters.

2. Symptoms: Eczema is usually itchy and can cause discomfort for the baby, leading to increased fussiness. Heat rash is generally not itchy and may not bother the baby as much.

3. Duration: Eczema is a chronic condition that can persist for weeks or months, while heat rash typically resolves quickly with cooling measures.

4. Triggers: Eczema can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, irritants, and changes in temperature. Heat rash is primarily triggered by overheating and excessive sweating.

If you suspect your baby has eczema, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician or a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and management plan. Treatment for eczema may include moisturizing creams, topical corticosteroids, and avoiding known triggers. For heat rash, keeping the baby cool, dressing them in loose-fitting clothing, and ensuring proper ventilation can help alleviate symptoms.

In summary, while both eczema and heat rash can cause red rashes on a newborn's skin, they have distinct characteristics and causes. Understanding these differences can help parents manage their baby's skin health effectively. If there are any concerns about the rash or if it worsens, seeking professional medical advice is always the best course of action.

Similar Q&A

How to Differentiate Between Heat Rash and Allergic Reactions in Infants

My sister is currently seven months old and has just started trying solid foods. After going out for a day (it was very hot that day), I noticed that the next day she developed a rash on her neck and arms. I think the rash on her neck is heat rash, but I'm not sure about the...


Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Allergic rashes can be divided into two main categories. The first category is symmetrical rashes, which occur in symmetrical areas of the body and are usually more widespread. These are often caused by food, medications, or allergens entering through the respiratory tract. The s...

[Read More] How to Differentiate Between Heat Rash and Allergic Reactions in Infants


Understanding Infant Skin Issues: Eczema vs. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Hello Dr. Wu, I have a history of allergies, and my baby may also have an allergic predisposition. My baby is almost five months old and has red, flaky, and dry skin, especially on the back. The areas that are usually scratched are the head and occasionally the chest, but the bac...


Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
The diagnosis of atopic dermatitis requires long-term observation, and I also tend to think it is seborrheic dermatitis in infants. Generally, it improves around 8 to 12 months of age, but moisturizing may still be necessary. I recommend trying petroleum jelly.

[Read More] Understanding Infant Skin Issues: Eczema vs. Seborrheic Dermatitis


How Long Does It Take for Rashes to Fade in Babies?

If a seven-month-old baby is experiencing heat rash or an allergic reaction while trying solid foods, how long does it typically take for each condition to resolve? Can this resolution time be used as a criterion to differentiate between heat rash and allergic reactions? Or are t...


Dr. Hong Zhengsheng reply Dermatology
Hello, nanan: The best advice is to find a dermatologist you trust and consult with them. Unfortunately, there is no simple method to easily differentiate between these two conditions; a comprehensive evaluation considering other bodily symptoms is necessary. I recommend that whe...

[Read More] How Long Does It Take for Rashes to Fade in Babies?


Understanding Scalp Scratching and Rashes in Infants: A Pediatric Guide

Hello Doctor: Our little boy is currently nine months old and often has small rashes on his neck. Each time it flares up, it becomes a large red area, and some people even mistake it for a birthmark. He also frequently pulls his hair. I heard that allergy testing can only be done...


Dr. Hong Shuokun reply Pediatrics
Hello Meimei: If a child over six months old has thick red patches in specific areas such as the neck, behind the ears, on the cheeks, at the elbow joints, or knee joints, and these patches are itchy, it is more indicative of atopic dermatitis. Allergy testing is only helpful in ...

[Read More] Understanding Scalp Scratching and Rashes in Infants: A Pediatric Guide


Related FAQ

Rash

(Pediatrics)

Infantile Eczema

(Dermatology)

Skin

(Pediatrics)

Purpura

(Pediatrics)

Itchy Rash

(Dermatology)

Fever

(Pediatrics)

Rash

(Internal Medicine)

Rash

(Family Medicine)

Nasal Allergy

(Pediatrics)

Kawasaki Disease

(Pediatrics)