Common Newborn Skin Problems (and What’s Totally Normal)

Newborn skin is incredibly sensitive, and in the early weeks it is completely normal to see flaking, redness, bumps, or irritation appear and disappear. A newborn’s skin barrier is still developing, meaning it reacts more easily to heat, moisture, drool, friction, and everyday irritants.

Here at Pigeon, we understand how important it is for parents to use gentle, effective skincare that nurtures their baby’s skin without unnecessary chemicals. That’s why our Botanicals Nappy Cream and Baby Eczema Cream are formulated specifically for newborns, using plant-derived ingredients that soothe and protect even the most delicate skin.

Below is a complete guide to the most common newborn skin conditions, how to manage them at home, and when to seek additional support.

1. Baby Acne

Baby acne commonly appears in the first few weeks^[1].

What baby acne looks like

    •    Small red or white bumps on cheeks or nose
    •    May worsen with heat or drool
    •    Typically resolves on its own

How to care for baby acne

    •    Clean with warm water only
    •    Avoid lotions, oils, or scrubbing
    •    Do not squeeze or pick

2. Nappy Rash (Diaper Rash)

Nappy rash is one of the most common skin issues in the first year of life. It typically shows up as redness or irritation in the nappy area and can develop surprisingly quickly.

What causes Nappy Rash in babies?

    •    Prolonged moisture exposure (urine or stool)
    •    Friction from nappies
    •    Warm, damp conditions that encourage irritation
    •    Reaction to wipes, detergents, or fragrances
    •    Sensitive skin that reacts easily

What to look for?

    •    Pink, red, or inflamed patches in the nappy area
    •    Warm, irritated skin
    •    Peeling or dryness
    •    Baby fussing during nappy changes

What ingredients to avoid in nappy rash creams?

Many common nappy creams include ingredients that can aggravate newborn skin, such as:
    •    Added fragrances
    •    Essential oils
    •    Alcohol
    •    Parabens or phenoxyethanol
    •    Heavy petroleum-based occlusives that trap heat and moisture

Formulated with gentle, plant-derived ingredients, the Pigeon Natural Botanical Nappy Cream helps create a nourishing barrier on delicate skin while supporting calm, healthy recovery from nappy rash^[2].

Key benefits:

    •   Zinc oxide barrier that protects without suffocating the skin
    •    Enriched with shea butter, jojoba, and squalane for nourishment
    •    Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and suitable for newborns
    •    Dermatologically tested, with proven results within 3hrs*

What parents are saying:

"I was pleasantly surprised by how unique this cream is. It applies clear and a little spreads so smoothly and widely. I didn't notice a smell apart from a mild lotion smell. I applied it on a small irritated dry patch on my hand and I definitely noticed an immediate difference. Will definitely be looking more into the rest of the product line" - Veron for Natural Botanicals Diaper Cream

Comparison Table: Nappy Rash Cream (Pigeon vs Others)

3. Peeling or Dry Skin

Many newborns shed their top layer of skin in the first 1–2 weeks.

What to do

    •    Avoid over-bathing
    •    Use lukewarm water
    •    Pat dry; avoid rubbing
    •    Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser if needed

4. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema affects many babies, often appearing between 2–4 months of age. It can flare intermittently^[3].

What are the top signs of baby eczema?

    •    Dry, rough, or inflamed patches
    •    Redness on cheeks, arms, legs, or behind the knees
    •    Itchiness or rubbing
    •    Irritated skin after heat or drool exposure

What are common triggers?

    •    Heat or dry air
    •    Saliva or dribble rash
    •    Rough fabrics
    •    Fragranced detergents or lotions
    •    Family history of eczema or allergies

Ingredients to avoid?

    •    Fragrance
    •    Essential oils
    •    Alcohol
    •    SLS/SLES
    •    Parabens
    •    Harsh preservatives

A steroid-free option to help baby eczema is the, Pigeon Natural Botanical Baby Eczema Cream. It's a plant-based formula designed to calm irritation and strengthen the skin barrier.

Key benefits

    •    Dermatologist tested
    •    Steroid-free and fragrance-free
    •    Contains soothing botanicals and skin barrier-supporting ingredients
    •    Suitable for newborns and sensitive skin

Comparison Table: Eczema Cream (Pigeon vs Others)

5. Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis)

Cradle cap appears as yellow, flaky, or crusty patches on the scalp.

Why does cradle cap happen to babies?

    •    Overactive oil glands stimulated by maternal hormones
    •    Completely harmless and not itchy

What is some safe at-home care for cradle cap?

    •    Massage scalp gently with fingers
    •    Wash with a mild baby cleanser
    •    Use a soft baby brush to lift loose flakes

6. Heat Rash (Miliaria)

Heat rash is common in warm climates or when babies are overdressed.

Signs your baby has heat rash:

    •    Tiny red bumps on neck, chest, or folds
    •    Caused by blocked sweat glands

Care tips

    •    Keep baby cool
    •    Choose breathable cotton clothing
    •    Avoid heavy creams

7. Erythema Toxicum (Newborn Rash)

A harmless, blotchy rash appearing in the first week.

Key facts

    •    Looks like red patches with small white or yellow bumps
    •    Completely normal
    •    Clears without treatment

Most newborn skin conditions are temporary and completely normal. With gentle care, patience, and safe, fragrance-free products, your baby’s skin will settle as their barrier develops.

Pigeon Botanicals Nappy Cream and Baby Eczema Cream are crafted to support this delicate stage of life, using plant-based, dermatologically tested ingredients that soothe and protect without irritation.

Other Recommended Reads

    •    The Truth About Nappy Cream Ingredients (and a Better Alternative)

A deeper dive into what’s really inside common nappy creams and how to choose gentler options for sensitive skin.
    •    Do You Really Need a Special Laundry Detergent for Baby? Experts Weigh In
Helps parents understand detergents, sensitive skin and how to reduce irritation from clothing and bedding.

    •    A Beginner’s Guide to Baby Oral Care
Covers first toothbrushes, gum care and early oral hygiene, perfect for parents already thinking about overall baby health.