That said, a skin condition like eczema can also cause a newborns skin to peel.
Normal skin peeling in newborns usually stops within a few weeks after birth.
If it persists, it’s worth mentioning to your child’s healthcare provider.
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The hands and feet are the most noticeable areas where peeling occurs.
However, it’s possible that peeling could be due to a skin condition that should be evaluated.
Cradle cap is common in the first three months of life.
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Like normal peeling skin, it usually resolves on its own.
If it starts to get worse or lasts longer than a few months, talk with your pediatrician.
Known as atopic dermatitis, eczema often begins before 6 months of age.
Diego Cerro Jimenez / Getty Images
Infants usually develop baby eczema on the face or scalp.
It can spread to other body areas but usually does not affect the diaper area.
Healthcare providers do not always know why an infant develops eczema.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
In some cases, over-the-counter creams, prescription medications, orphototherapymay be recommended.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Ichthyosis
Infants who haveichthyosisare born with an extra layer of skin on their bodies.
This membrane sometimes resembles a plastic wrap and can keep your baby from being able to move easily.
It can take several weeks for the membrane to crack and peel off.
Babies usually need extra calories since this sloughing process requires a lot of energy.
Their medical team may recommend extra feedings throughout the day.
you’re able to also try using a hypoallergenic moisturizer.
Breastmilk is used in many cultures as a natural remedy for chapped or infected skin.
Summary
Most newborns will experience peeling, flaky skin after birth.
The peeling usually clears up on its own without the need for lotion or any other intervention.
Talk with your healthcare provider if your baby seems uncomfortable or the skin starts to become red and inflamed.
Stanford Medical.Newborn Nursery: Skin.
Kids Health.Looking at Your Newborn: Whats Normal.
John Hopkins Medicine.Newborn Skin 101.
National Eczema Association.Eczema in Children.
Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types.Ichthyosis Care.
Witkowska-Zimny M, Kaminska-El-Hassan E, Wrobel E.Milk Therapy: Unexpected Uses for Human Breast Milk.Nutrients.
2019;11(5):944.
Published 2019 Apr 26. doi:10.3390/nu11050944
