This is mild dermatitis of the forearm of an infant. This image displays inflammation and rash typical of irritant contact dermatitis due to frequent wetting and drying of the skin. The cheeks are a frequent site of irritant contact dermatitis from constant wetting and drying. This hospitalized infant with contact irritant dermatitis had chaffing and irritation from the bandage around the neck. Constant drooling around this pacifier caused irritant contact dermatitis (skin inflammation). This image displays severe inflammation and blistering from an irritating chemical.
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Irritant Contact Dermatitis:
A parent's guide for infants and babies

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Picture of Irritant Contact Dermatitis: This is mild dermatitis of the forearm of an infant. Divider line
This is mild dermatitis of the forearm of an infant.
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Self-Care Guidelines
  • Remove whatever chemical or condition is causing the irritation, and protect the skin from further exposure.  
  • For irritated skin in body folds, try using a barrier cream with zinc oxide paste, such as Desitin®.
  • If the area is dry and cracked, moisturize the area frequently by dampening with water and then applying a softening cream (emollient) such as petroleum jelly or a moisturizer.
  • For itchy, red areas, try applying over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (0.5–1%) twice daily.
When to Seek Medical Care
See your child's doctor or a dermatologist if the rash does not go away with self-care measures.
Last Modified: 6 Nov 2007

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