Baby acne is caused by exposure to the mother's adult hormones. The little white dots often seen on a newborn's nose represent an abnormal amount of normal skin oil that is a result of these hormones. Acne usually occurs between 2 and 4 weeks of age but may appear up to 4 months after birth and can last for 12 to 18 months. Cradle cap causes greasy, scaling , crusty patches on the scalp that appear in a baby's first 3 months. It usually goes away by itself, but some cases may require treatment with medication.
Prickly heat causes rash or blotches during hot weather or in a hot environment.
Change wet diapers as quickly as possible. Allow the baby's skin to air dry as long as is practical. Launder cloth diapers in mild soap and rinse well. Avoid using plastic pants. Ointments such as Desitin or zinc oxide may help reduce friction and protect the baby's skin from irritation.