A newborn’s complexion can provide many clues as to their overall health. In addition, a baby’s skin is very sensitive during the first year and may experience a variety of changes, some of which are easily treatable, while others may require a visit to your doctor.

When children are born, nearly half develop jaundice, which is a yellow coloring of the skin and eyes, during the first week. The condition is usually temporary but may also be a sign of a more serious illness. In general, jaundice is caused by the breakdown of red blood cells that convert to bilirubin. This is usually removed by the liver, however, in newborns, the removal process is still developing. Therefore, a buildup of bilirubin in the blood causes a yellowing of the infant’s eyes, skin, and tissues. As liver function matures, jaundice disappears.

There are several types of jaundice. Breast milk jaundice occurs in two percent of breastfed babies after the first 3 to 5 days. It peaks at around two weeks of age and can last up to three to twelve weeks. Breast milk jaundice is caused by the reabsorption of bilirubin through the intestinal tract, which is known as enterohepatic circulation. In addition, breastfeeding failure jaundice results from a failure to begin breastfeeding, which results in dehydration, reduced urine and stool production and a buildup of bilirubin.

Other types of jaundice include jaundice from hemolysis, which may occur with the breakdown of red blood cells as a result of hemolytic disease of the newborn, known as Rh disease, having an excess of red blood cells, or internal bleeding. Also, jaundice may be due to inadequate liver function, resulting from infection or other factors. Depending on the severity of jaundice, which should be evaluated by a doctor, there are several types of treatments, including the use of phototherapy or blood transfusions.

Newborns may also have a bluish complexion. At birth, a baby’s skin is a dark red to purple color. As they start breathing, the color changes to red. The redness will usually fade within the first twenty-four hours; however, the bluish tinge may remain in their hands and feet for several days. Generally, this is a normal response to an infant’s undeveloped blood circulation.

After the first twenty-four hours, parents should be aware of color variations in the child. Although a baby’s face, lips or mouth may turn purplish during intense crying, the color should return to pink when they stop crying. However, if the baby exhibits an overall bluish tinge, this may indicate cyanosis, which may be caused by a heart defect when the heart is unable to pump oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Cyanosis may also be the result of breathing difficulties, therefore, it is imperative to contact your doctor if your baby’s coloring appears blue.

According to Todd Minars, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Minars Dermatology, other common skin conditions in infants include “infant acne, cradle cap, infant eczema, heat rash, and overall dry skin.” He adds that “oftentimes, skin irritations and other conditions develop in newborns due to the nature of their existence, such as wearing diapers (and using them), being stationary, and the surge of hormones they're experiencing.”

Dr, Minars says that roughly 40% of infants experience acne as a result of hormones, which also exacerbate cradle cap, seborrheic dermatitis that affects infants, due to an overproduction of scalp oil. Cradle cap will appear on the scalp as greasy patches of scaling that may appear thick, crusty, yellow, white or brown. In addition, since infants are sedentary, they may experience other conditions as a result of sweating, friction or clogged pores, like heat rash, chafing and infant eczema, which can be cleared up with over-the-counter ointments.

“I can’t emphasize enough the importance of moisturizing with emollients, such as Aquaphor or Eucerin, as often as possible. You can apply these types of moisturizers as often as you’d like throughout the day. Another way to ease the dryness is to limit bath or shower time,” says Dr. Cherilyn Cecchini of Your Doctors Online.

“Most parents report washing their children once daily, but this practice can lead to drier skin. Rather, try washing every other day and using warm water rather than very hot water. Be sure to use fragrance-free laundry detergent and unscented soap. The fragrances can irritate the skin further,” she adds.

It is also important to be aware if your baby develops a raised, red rash, which can be the result of a heat rash, an allergic reaction, or a fever. Mary Sweeney, a registered nurse and a medical consultant for Mom Loves Best, says if you notice a rash, check to see if the baby is overheated, if they have a fever, or if you’ve changed soap or detergent recently.

In addition, “If your baby has had a bout of diarrhea or isn’t tolerating food or drink, there’s a chance they’re dehydrated. If you lightly pinch their skin and it doesn’t bounce back normally, that’s a good indication that they are dehydrated and need to see a doctor right away,” Sweeney says.

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As always, any concerns you may have regarding your baby’s complexion should be discussed with your doctor. While it is normal for babies to have sensitive skin, persistent or recurring issues may need medical treatments. Also, abnormal changes in color may indicate a more serious problem, therefore, you should check with your doctor immediately if you notice these.