Treatment for a Baby's Drool Rash


 by April Fox

When your baby is teething, he probably seems to drool constantly. All of that saliva can give him "drool rash" -- a raised, red rash most commonly found on the face but that can also extend onto the neck and chest if your little one is a "super drooler."

When your baby is teething, he probably seems to drool constantly. All of that saliva can give him "drool rash" -- a raised, red rash most commonly found on the face but that can also extend onto the neck and chest if your little one is a "super drooler." This rash is harmless, but there are things you can do to help clear it up.

Keep It Clean

Keeping your baby's skin clean may improve drool rash. A clean, cloth diaper or baby washcloth is absorbent and gentle and won't irritate already sensitive skin. Focus on all of the affected areas -- use warm water and gently pat the skin dry. Rubbing it will further irritate the rash. Don't forget about places the drool and rash can hide, like the folds in your baby's neck. Be sure to get his skin completely dry after washing it.

Protective Lotion

Talk to your doctor about applying a hypoallergenic cream or ointment with lanolin to the affected areas of your baby's skin. Be sure to choose a product made for babies and that is safe to use on her face and around her mouth. Cover all of the rash with the lotion and rub it in well so that none of it can get on her hands and into her mouth. The cream provides a barrier between baby's skin and the irritating drool.

Prevention

While your baby sleeps, the drool can soak his sheets. Sleeping on the wet sheets and rubbing his face on them can exacerbate the drool rash. Place an absorbent cloth, like a towel or a cloth diaper, under the sheet to help soak up the moisture. Don't place it on top of the sheet or baby could become tangled in it. Applying the lanolin cream before bed will help protect his skin while he sleeps. During the day, keep an absorbent bib on your baby to help protect his chest from the drool. Change the bib as it becomes soaked.

When to Be Concerned

If the rash on your baby's face seems to be itchy or painful or doesn't clear up with the treatment listed above, contact her pediatrician. Other things, such as scabies or eczema, can cause facial rashes and could require medical treatment. Never apply medicated products to your baby's tender skin without consulting a doctor first.

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