Skin Rashes in Kids

Most babies, toddlers and children will develop a skin rash at some point before they turn 18. They’ll probably have more than one. Fortunately, most childhood rashes aren’t serious.

Rashes in kids develop for various reasons. From allergic reactions to viral infections, you’ll likely see your child through a rash. The symptoms of rashes can differ, and so can their appearance. So, it’s important to know about the ones that can affect your child and how to treat them.

If your child has a rash, it’s probably nothing to worry about. But as their caretaker, you know them best. If something seems off, trust your judgement. A trip to your child’s pediatrician will put your mind at ease and provide your child with symptom relief.

The most common skin rashes in babies and kids

Many different types of rashes can affect babies and children. Common skin rashes in children include:

Dermatitis

“Dermatitis” is an umbrella term for any condition that causes skin inflammation (redness or skin discoloration). Types of dermatitis include:

• Diaper rash: Diaper rash is the most common baby rash. It affects your baby’s buttocks, genitals and thighs. Another name for this rash is diaper dermatitis.
• Cradle cap: Cradle cap is a harmless skin condition that affects your baby’s scalp. Another name for this rash is infant seborrheic dermatitis.
• Baby eczema: Baby eczema causes dry, itchy skin. It most commonly affects your baby’s face. Another name for this rash is atopic dermatitis.
• Contact dermatitis: Contact dermatitis causes an itchy skin rash. It occurs when your baby comes into contact with an allergen or irritant.

Viral infections

Viral rashes in babies and children are common. Many different viruses cause them. Types of viral infections include:

• Fifth disease: This infection causes a rash on your baby’s face that makes their cheeks bright red. That’s why it’s also called slapped cheek disease. It causes a lacy rash on your baby’s arms and legs, too.
• Roseola: This infection affects most babies and toddlers by the time they turn 2. After a high fever, it causes a rash that appears all over your baby’s body. Another name for this infection is sixth disease.
• Chickenpox: This childhood rash used to be very common. Now, a vaccine can prevent most cases. Another name for this infection is varicella-zoster.
• Measles: Measles is a very contagious infection. It can cause flu-like symptoms and a rash that spreads all over your child’s body. A vaccine can prevent measles.
• Rubella: Rubella may look similar to measles, but a different virus causes it. A vaccine can prevent it. Another name for this infection is German measles.
• Molluscum contagiosum: This infection causes a harmless but sometimes unpleasant rash. It causes small, raised bumps to form all over your child’s body. This rash can last up to a year.
• Hand, foot and mouth disease: This infection causes a blister-like rash to form on your child’s hands and feet. It may also affect other parts of their body. It also causes painful sores in your child’s mouth.

Bacterial infections

Bacteria can also cause baby rashes. Types of bacterial infections include:

• Scarlet fever: This infection causes a rash with tiny, rough bumps to form all over your child’s body. It also causes strep throat symptoms.
• Impetigo: This infection is most common in kids ages 2 to 5 years old. But it can occur at any age. It usually causes a rash to form around your child’s mouth or under their nose.

Fungal infections

Fungi can also lead to rashes in kids. Types of fungal infections include:

• Ringworm: Despite its name, a fungus causes ringworm, not a worm. A ring-shaped rash can appear anywhere on your child’s body, including their arms, legs and chest.

Other common baby rashes

• Teething rash: A teething rash on your baby’s face may come and go. This occurs as new teeth pop up or when your baby stops drooling as much.
• Hives: Infant hives occur for the same reason they do in adults. A reaction happens when your baby eats or touches something they’re allergic to. Another name for hives is urticaria.
• Baby acne: Baby acne causes breakouts to occur on your newborn’s face and chest. It usually goes away on its own within your baby’s first three months of life.

Symptoms of childhood skin rashes

Baby rash symptoms vary depending on which type of rash they have. Some cause no symptoms other than their appearance. Others can be irritating and painful. Symptoms may include:

• Redness or skin discoloration
• Pimples, bumps or cysts
• Flat or raised spots
• Yellow, scaly patches
• Itchy, dry skin
• Fluid-filled blisters
• Cold symptoms, like cough and runny nose
• Fever

Baby rash causes

The causes of childhood rashes vary based on the type. Causes may include:

• Genetics
• Environmental factors
• Strength of your baby’s immune system
• Differences in your child’s skin barrier
• Allergic reactions
• Viruses, bacteria or fungi
• Skin irritations
• Medications

How doctors diagnose rashes in kids

Your child’s pediatrician will ask you questions about their rash, including:

• How long have they had the rash?
• Has the rash changed in appearance since it first developed?
• Has the rash spread to other locations on your child’s body?
• Have you tried any treatments at home?
• Does anyone else in your home have the rash?
• Has your child started any new medications?

Then, your child’s provider will perform a physical exam. They’ll carefully look at the type of bumps or spots on your child’s body. They’ll also look at the shape, color and other important features of the rash.

How are they treated?

Treatment for childhood rashes varies based on the type and cause of the rash. Some childhood rashes will clear on their own. You can use at-home treatments to speed up the process. Treatments include:

• Acetaminophen or NSAIDs
• Allergy medicines (antihistamines)
• Anti-itch medications
• Antibiotic ointments
• Baby shampoos
• Gentle cleansers
• Emollient creams
• Moisturizing lotions

For some rashes, your child will need prescription medication. Prescription medications include:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antifungals for fungal infections

When should I worry about my child’s rash?

Most rashes are harmless. They may cause uncomfortable symptoms. But they should clear up, either on their own or with at-home treatment. Your child may need antibiotics or other prescription medication for certain rashes.

Some rashes can be more serious. Call your child’s healthcare provider if they have a weakened immune system and any rash. Also see their provider if your child’s rash:

• Causes pain, severe itching or blistering
• Doesn’t fade when you press on it
• Looks infected (swollen or pus-filled bumps)
• Doesn’t go away after treatment
• Worsens after treatment
• Lasts more than a week
• Comes with a high fever and swollen glands

What can I expect if my child has a rash?

Most rashes in kids don’t cause any serious problems or lead to complications. Your child’s rash may heal on its own or clear up with minor treatment. Certain rashes require treatment at your provider’s office. They can figure out the best option for your child.

Other rashes can mean your child has a severe illness, like measles. Measles isn’t just a rash. The condition can lead to life-threatening complications. See your child’s provider if they develop flu-like symptoms and a widespread rash.

Can skin rashes in kids be prevented?

You may be able to prevent your child from developing certain rashes. Have your child:

• Avoid triggers, like allergens.
• Practice good hygiene.
• Wash their hands regularly.
• Leave cuts and scrapes alone (don’t scratch).
• Cough and sneeze into their elbow.
• Avoid other people when they’re sick with something contagious.

You can prevent some infections that cause rashes with vaccines. This includes chickenpox, measles and rubella.