Peeling or cracking skin around the wrists or ankles is common, especially in babies who have gone past their due date. As new skin cells grow, this condition will clear up without treatment. Newborns often have a lot of downy fuzz on their backs, arms and ears. This will soon rub off and disappear. Newborns also have a white, waxy coating that protects their skin. This is usually removed during the baby's first bath. It will be absorbed through the baby's skin within 24 hours after birth, if not removed during the first bath.
Some additional, common skin conditions include:
Stork bites
Many new babies have red areas around their foreheads, eyelids, and noses or on the backs of their necks. They are called "stork bites." They will be more visible when the baby cries and disappear by itself during the first year.
Milia
These look like "white heads" or pimples. They usually appear on the nose or chin. They usually disappear by themselves in the first weeks of life. Do not squeeze or put cream or lotion on them.
Rashes
Newborns often have rashes (reddened areas with an pinhead sized yellow or white raised center) that usually come and go during the first 10 days of life. These are normal and will soon disappear without treatment.
A raised pimple-like rash around the cord or genital area may occur. Usually this rash will clear up with normal bathing, sunbathing, or exposure to air. If the rash does not go away or increases, see your healthcare provider. A more severe blister-like rash that ruptures, leaves a scab, and continues to spread should be checked by your healthcare provider.
Skin rashes can also result from overdressing or harsh laundry soaps. As the baby becomes warm and sweats, skin irritation develops in skin folds. Keep the areas clean and dry, and avoid overdressing. You can also try a milder laundry soap, dissolve the soap before adding clothes and rinse twice. It is not recommended to put lotions or creams on a newborn's skin.