Toddlers can end up with all kinds of skin ailments. A rash on toddlers is not uncommon and most toddlers will develop a rash of some kind during their second year of life. There are several toddler rashes that are common including eczema, viral infections, dermatitis, and the like. The following are explanations of some of the more common rashes on toddlers.
Contact Dermatitis
Toddlers may experience contact dermatitis, a rash that is caused from a direct irritation. This is usually caused by detergents or soaps that are too strong, drooling, and even taking bubble baths with soap that is not made for baby’s skin. Generally, contact dermatitis rashes are itchy with mild redness. A moisturizer is generally enough to soothe your toddler’s skin.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is another toddler rash that usually starts as an infant and continues throughout life. It is also known as eczema and it tends to get better, then get worse, and follow this cycle for many years. It is common the cheeks, trunk, scalp, forehead, elbows, knees, and other parts of the body.
Keratosis Pilaris
Toddlers may get the keratosis pilaris rash. This rash creates rashes on the back of the legs and arms as well as on the cheeks. Generally, the rash is made of small red bumps. This condition is difficult to treat and is chronic. Lubricants are the best for this toddler rash.
Infections
Toddlers are exposed to all types of germs and frequently get rashes. These rashes may result from viral infections like fifth disease, roseola, and chickenpox. Generally, these infections and the rashes improve within a week or so.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a toddler rash that starts out innocent enough of a small red bump, but the bacteria quickly turns into a large plaque encrusted rash. It is found on the face near the nose in many cases yet may appear on any part of the body. Antibiotics are used to treat impetigo.
Ringworm
A toddler rash caused by ringworm will have a circle shape and the center will be quite clear. Most of the time ringworm rashes are found on a toddler’s legs, trunk, arms, face and other areas of the body that don’t have hair. An antifungal cream that may be purchased over the counter will work in most cases.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Another toddler rash to be aware of is seborrheic dermatitis. This rash creates red patches on the scalp that can be greasy and yellow colored. They are found behind the ears, on the face, and on the scalp. In a month’s time most toddlers will clear the rash on their own. If not, there are some special shampoos and lotions that may be purchased.