Skin issues in babies and children are often more frequent and pronounced. Rashes and dry skin particularly in babies is something we have all seen as parents. But rashes can affect a child at any age right from infancy to teenage years. It is necessary to understand how to avoid this problem to order to protect their skin at all times.

1. Importance of moisture

Babies and children have very thin skin thus it becomes very vulnerable to scratches and injury. In addition, unlike in adults, the tender skin holds moisture less efficiently in the body. Thus it promotes dry skin. Sebum and skin thickness helps retain moisture in healthy adults. Sebum is the oily substance which is produced by the hair follicles and this is present throughout the human body. Sebum is responsible for holding moisture in the tissues and this blocks external elements. Since babies and children have a lesser amount of natural defenses in their bodies, parents need to keep their skin well moisturized especially during drier seasons.

2. Causes of Children's rashes

Milk allergy often causes skin rash in babies and children. Casein and whey particularly from cow's milk are the more common culprits that trigger a milk allergy. The symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea and watery eyes. This often leads to a skin rash which is a visible manifestation of this problem. Catching the symptoms early and providing appropriate relief can often prevent a serious affliction. The best treatment would be to stay away from products that cause the allergy until the child develops resistance to the allergen.

3. Bacterial and Viral rashes

Bacterial and viral rashes are prominent parts of measles, chickenpox, scarlet fever, impetigo etc. and are more complex in nature. Unlike adults, children cannot take many hygiene precautions and their natural tendency to share things can make it easier for the virus or bacteria to spread. If your child is itching more than usual then see a medical practitioner to see if a rash is developing.