There are three common rashes that can occur in young babies:

Milia:
This is a very common rash and is seen in most babies. It can start from one week to three weeks of age. The rash looks like tiny white or yellow spots on the baby’s face and neck. This is caused by secretions of the tiny glands in the skin of the baby after birth. Although parents can find it upsetting it does not cause the baby any discomfort and will disappear without treatment in four to six weeks

Seborrheic Dermatitis:
This is also seen in babies from about one month of age. It can present as pumps on the skin that are smaller than Milia spots and has yellow crusty areas that are flaky and dry. It frequently occurs in the eyebrows and scalp and can also be seen on the neck and shoulders. It is best to consult your Doctor because it can be treated successfully with steroid creams available only on prescription.

Infantile Eczema:
This is another common skin condition in young babies. It usually starts between one and five months of age. In eczema the skin has patches of raised areas that are red and occur in different areas of the body including the face. Some babies with severe eczema have allergies to milk while in others no specific cause can be found other than a tendency to dry skin. Some babies will grow out of eczema as they get older while in others it will be a problem throughout their childhood. The treatment of eczema includes moisturising creams and bath oils. Severe eczema is often treated with steroid creams and other ointments prescribed by your doctor.

It is always advisable to have a baby's rash checked by your health visitor or Doctor so that the correct advice treatment can be given