Rashes (Children)

Rashes in young children can be upsetting, but they're common and often not serious unless there are other symptoms.

Call Doctor If:

Your child is younger than 6 months
Has a fever along with a rash
Has a rash that oozes or appears red or wet, which could be an infection
Has a rash that goes past the diaper area
Has a rash that is more serious in skin creases
Has a rash that doesn't get better after 2 days
Has flat, small red spots on the skin that don't fade if you press them
Looks unwell or is not feeding well
Has hives
Has bruises not due to an injury

1. Find the Cause

Try to figure out whether the rash is due to coming into contact with a common irritant such as poison ivy, chemicals, soaps, nickel jewelry, or a pet.
Could it be a diaper rash? Make sure you are changing the diapers frequently and applying protective diaper cream after cleaning the area. If this does not help, see your doctor.

2. Clean the Skin

Wash the rash with mild soap but don't scrub. Rinse with warm water.
Pat the skin dry, rather than rubbing it.
Don't cover the rash.

3. Treat Symptoms

Put a wet cloth on the rash to ease pain and itching.
Trim your child's fingernails to help prevent scratching.
Put soft gloves on your child at night to avoid scratching.