Practically every parent knows babies have very sensitive skin, making them more prone to rashes than adults and older kids. But what you may not know is exactly what that baby rash is, what’s causing it or how to treat it.
When it comes to baby rashes, there are many types and many culprits. Some common causes include:

• Irritants. Common irritants that can bother the baby’s sensitive skin are saliva and drool, poop, baby wipes, detergents, soaps, sunscreen, and nickel.

• Allergies. Allergic reactions can cause a baby rash to appear in a bunch of different forms. Rashes can be itchy, welt-like hives or dry, itchy patches. Eczema is the most common version of a baby rash caused by allergies.

• Infections. Infections can lead to different types of baby rash, the most common of which are fungal rashes. Sometimes, however, a viral baby rash can develop. “These rashes occur when babies have specific viral illnesses and may be associated with fever or other symptoms,”. A viral baby rash can appear as small dots on the torso and sometimes arms and legs and can last for several days to a week. It may spread for a few days and then begin to clear up.

“Baby’s skin barrier is especially fragile because it’s thinner, immature and the skin is still developing, so that makes it a lot more vulnerable to damage and dryness. It’s also more reactive, especially to things that could be irritants,”. Baby’s skin is typically ultra-sensitive from birth until around age 2, although diaper rash can continue to rear its head past that age until kids are potty trained.