Baby Neck Skin Rash

Skin rashes are common on young babies. They can get little white bumps that look like pimples, a rash that looks like hives, or yellow skin from jaundice. In most cases, these things are normal and get better on their own. The same is true of most baby neck skin rashes.

Identifying a Baby's Neck Skin Rash

Look to see if the rash is only on baby's neck, or if appears in other places on his body. Some rashes are more common in skin folds, so a neck rash might also appear in the diaper area or the armpits. Some rashes affect the entire body, but you might notice them first on the neck.

Common causes of rashes or discolorations on a baby's neck include skin irritation, stork bites, and prickly heat.

Skin Irritation

Babies don't have very long necks. In fact, the chubby skin folds under a baby's chin are part of what makes her so cute! But, those skin folds can also encourage the formation of a rash. Since the baby can't hold her head up yet, the skin constantly rubs against itself. This can cause skin irritation and breakdown, leading to a rash.

This sort of rash will often clear up on its own, as the baby learns to hold her head up and the rubbing lessens. Avoiding using soap on the affected area and try to keep the skin dry.

Occasionally, a baby will develop a fungal infection in the skin folds. A type of fungus called candida, commonly called "yeast," causes some forms of diaper rash because it likes to live in warm, moist places. A young baby's neck folds can also be a good environment for candida.

If the baby's neck skin rash is not improving with simple measures like keeping the skin dry, or if it seems to be spreading, check with your doctor to be sure it is not a candida infection. If it is, your doctor will prescribe a simple cream to kill the yeast.

Stork Bites

"Stork bite" is the common name for a type of birthmark which can appear on the back of a newborn baby's neck. A stork bite isn't actually a rash. It's a flat, pinkish spot on otherwise normal-looking skin, and it doesn't itch or hurt. It's caused by a collection of blood vessels, possibly related to natural hormones from the mother. Stork bites usually fade on their own within a few months. Occasionally they will last longer, or even remain permanently.

Prickly Heat

In the summer, baby's skin can be irritated by the heat. Prickly heat, also called heat rash, looks like small red bumps. It tends to appear in places that stay warm and damp from sweat. That includes the diaper area, the armpits, and the neck.

Keeping the baby cool and comfortable is the best way to prevent and treat prickly heat. Dressing the baby in loose clothing and keeping the affected areas dry can also help.

When to Worry

Most of the time, a baby's neck skin rash will not be serious. Call your pediatrician if the rash is accompanied by a fever. If there are fluid- or pus-filled blisters, this could signal an infection that requires antibiotics. Call the doctor right away if the baby is not feeding properly, is not showing his/her usual level of activity, or is crying and can't be consoled.

If the rash consists of tiny red spots or dots which don't fade when pressed, it could actually be caused by bleeding under the skin. The little spots, called petechiae, can signal a serious infection. Call the doctor immediately if you notice petechiae.

Remember that you know your baby best. In general, any rash that worries you is a reason to call the doctor.