Rashes in Children Directory
Skin rashes are common in children, but most are usually not harmful. A rash can be caused by an allergic reaction, viral illness, or a medical problem that affects the skin. Common types of rashes in children include diaper rash, a skin condition called eczema, baby dandruff called cradle cap, and infections such as roseola and fifth disease. Some rashes, however, can be caused by life-threatening diseases such as meningitis. Call the doctor if your child has a rash with a fever or breathing problems, if the rash covers a large part of the body, or if it looks like it hurts or is infected. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about rashes in children, how they develop, what they look like, when to worry, and much more.
Medical Reference
The Basics of Lice and Scabies
You've probably heard of lice and scabies, but do you really know what they are? Find out more.
Childhood Skin Problems
WebMD explains the symptoms, causes, and treatments for a number of skin conditions seen in young children, including cradle cap, roseola, and fifth disease.
The Basics on Fifth Disease
Learn about fifth disease, a contagious viral condition that's more common in kids than adults.
Symptoms of Fifth Disease
Read about the symptoms of fifth disease, a contagious viral condition usually seen in children.
Features
Is My Newborn Normal?
To help prepare you for those first hours, days, and weeks of life, here's a head-to-toe guide to newborn health.
Solving Your Diaper Dilemma
WebMD provides insights into common diaper problems, including the debate over disposable and cloth diapers. Learn how to be environmentally friendly while keeping the convenience of disposable diapers, and find out what the safety concerns with disposable diapers are.
Diapering Baby On the Go
Heading out for a day with baby? Here are some diaper bag must-haves, with tips for diapering in public, too.
Diapering a Newborn: Dealing With Diaper Rash
Is your baby bothered by diaper rash? There are lots of things you can do to prevent and treat this problem.
Video
Battling Diaper Rash
From prevention to treatment, all the facts on the diaper rash.
Diapering Delicate Areas
All the facts new moms and dads need to know to cope with newborn umbilical cords and newly circumcised baby boys.
Baby Skin Conditions
Any bump or rash on a baby's skin can be a source of concern for new parents.
Slideshows & Images
Picture of Rash from Poisonous Plants
Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac are plants that contain an irritating, oily sap called urushiol. Urushiol triggers an allergic reaction when it comes into contact with skin, resulting in an itchy rash, which can appear within hours of exposure or up to several days later.
Picture of Heat Rash
Heat rash looks like dots or tiny pimples. In young children, heat rash can appear on the head, neck, and shoulders.
Picture of Diaper Rash
Diaper rash appears on the skin under a diaper. Diaper rash typically occurs in infants and children younger than 2 years, but the rash can also be seen in people who are incontinent or paralyzed.
Picture of Cradle Cap
It's common for babies to develop flaky, red patches of skin on their scalp called cradle cap. It's not a big concern and is easy to treat.