Skin and Scalp Concerns of Healthy Babies

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Sometimes parents become concerned about the appearance of the skin or scalp in healthy young babies. The following are the common concerns which will require no treatment and will go away naturally.

Milia. These are tiny yellow or white spots which usually occur on the face. They occur in most babies, some having more than others. They are tiny cysts due to secretions of the tiny skin glands. They are normal and always go.

Hair falling out. It is normal for some hair to fall out about 2 to 3 weeks after birth. Sometimes the back of the head goes bald. Don't worry as this is only temporary and normal hair will grow back in time.

Skin peeling. Slight peeling of the skin commonly occurs in new born babies. This typically affects the hands and feet. New skin forms from underneath. It is of no concern.

Mongolian blue spot. This is an area of bluish skin which looks like a faint bruise (sometimes it is indeed confused with a bruise). It can occur in many parts of the baby`s body but is typically seen on the lower back and buttock area. It is very common in babies of Asian and African origin but less common in European babies. Its cause is unknown. It is of no concern and usually disappears in 2 to 3 years.

Scurfy scalp. Almost all babies develop some degree of scurfiness. It lasts for a few weeks and then disappears. If particularly severe, medicated shampoos can help lift the scurf. Babies are not at all bothered by it.

Naevi. To have little red marks on the skin is extremely common. These are due to collections of tiny blood vessels under the skin. Commonly they are seen on the forehead, eyelids and the back of the neck. They are so common that they are often referred to as 'stork marks' ie. where the stork put the baby in its beak before delivering him or her under the gooseberry bush! They always disappear.

Strawberry naevus. This can affect any part of the body. It is not usually seen at birth. After several days a small red patch on the skin grows and looks like the surface of a strawberry. It is due to a collection of tiny blood vessels under the skin. It can grow for up to six months, typically to the size of a small strawberry. It then gradually heals from the centre and eventually fades away altogether leaving no trace. In half of those affected there will be no trace by age five, the remaining half will be gone by age ten. It always eventually disappears leaving no mark and it is harmless. It should not be removed by an operation as this will leave a scar. Only in very rare cases where it is in a critical position (eg. next to an eye) will surgical removal be considered.

© EMIS and PIP 2004   CHIQ Accredited

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