“Cradle cap,” also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is a common condition that affects infants. It is characterized by greasy, yellow or brown scales or crusts on the scalp. Cradle cap can also occur on other areas of the body, such as the face (especially around the eyebrows and behind the ears), neck, and diaper area.

The exact cause of cradle cap is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from overactive sebaceous glands in the skin, which produce an excess of sebum (skin oil). This excess oil, combined with dead skin cells, can accumulate and form scales or crusts on the skin’s surface.

Cradle cap is typically harmless and does not cause discomfort or itching for most infants. It usually appears within the first few months of life and tends to resolve on its own by the age of six to twelve months, although it can sometimes persist longer.

“Salmon patches” and “stork bites” are both terms used to describe common types of birthmarks found in newborns. These birthmarks are typically benign and often fade or disappear as the child grows older.

1. Salmon patches (nevus simplex): Salmon patches are flat, pink or red patches of discoloration that are present at birth or appear shortly thereafter. They are caused by dilated blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. Salmon patches can occur on various parts of the body but are most commonly found on the back of the neck (“angel kisses”) or between the eyebrows (“glabellar hemangioma”). They are typically not raised or palpable and usually fade within the first year of life, although some may persist into adulthood.
2. Stork bites (nevus flammeus): Stork bites are another type of birthmark characterized by flat, pink or red patches of discoloration. They are caused by an overgrowth of blood vessels in the skin. Stork bites are often found on the nape of the neck (“nuchal salmon patch”) or on the upper eyelids (“eyelid hemangioma”). They are so named because they were traditionally believed to be caused by the “stork” delivering the baby and leaving a mark. Like salmon patches, stork bites usually fade over time, although those on the nape of the neck may persist into adulthood.

Severe or chronic diaper rash refers to persistent or intense irritation and inflammation of the skin in the diaper area. While occasional mild diaper rash is common in babies, severe or chronic cases can be more challenging to manage and may require medical attention.

Several factors can contribute to severe or chronic diaper rash, including:

1. Prolonged exposure to wetness: Leaving a wet or soiled diaper on for too long can irritate the skin, leading to diaper rash.
2. Friction: Rubbing and chafing from the diaper against the skin can exacerbate irritation, especially if the diaper is too tight.
3. Irritants: Contact with irritants such as soaps, lotions, fragrances, or certain diaper materials can trigger or worsen diaper rash.
4. Fungal or bacterial infections: Yeast infections (such as candidiasis) or bacterial infections can develop in the moist environment of the diaper area, leading to more severe diaper rash.
5. Sensitivities or allergies: Some babies may have sensitivities or allergies to certain diapering products, wipes, or foods, which can contribute to diaper rash.

Baby eczema, also known as infantile eczema or atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that typically appears in the first few months of life. It’s characterized by red, dry, itchy patches on the skin. These patches can occur anywhere on the body but are often found on the cheeks, scalp, arms, and legs.

The exact cause of baby eczema is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Babies with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies are more likely to develop it. Environmental factors like dry skin, irritants, and allergens can also trigger or exacerbate flare-ups.