Newborn rashes and bites
- Cradle Care Carer
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Newborn rashes and bites: What’s normal, what’s not, and when to worry
One of the most common things new parents notice in the early days is that their baby’s skin isn’t always perfectly smooth or evenly coloured. A little redness, dry patches, even small bumps — it can be worrying if you're not expecting it. You might find yourself asking, Is this normal? Is my baby allergic to something? Should we go to the hospital?
If that sounds like you, you’re not alone.
In summary
Not all rashes mean something is wrong
Many are part of your baby adjusting to life outside the womb
Bites happen — especially in Australia — but most are manageable
When in doubt, ask a professional
When are rashes normal?
After working with many newborns across Australian homes, I’ve learned this: baby skin is a world of its own. And most of the time, it’s nothing to panic about.
In this guide, we’ll go over the most common newborn rashes and bites, when to keep an eye on things, and when it’s time to see a doctor. We’ll also show you what common insect bites can look like — because in Australia, especially near bushland, that’s part of everyday life.
Why newborn skin is so sensitive
Newborn skin is incredibly thin and delicate. It hasn’t fully adjusted to the outside world — dry air, clothing, temperature changes, and all sorts of new exposures. That’s why even minor things like a change in laundry detergent or a warm day can leave a mark.
But sometimes, the skin just does its thing without any clear reason — especially in those first few weeks.
Newborn rashes (that look scary but usually aren’t)
Baby Acne
Yes, babies get acne! Tiny red or white bumps, usually on the cheeks, chin, or forehead. It’s likely caused by hormones passed on from mum during late pregnancy.
✅ No creams, no picking. Just gentle washing and patience.
Milia
These are tiny white dots — not pimples — often seen on the nose, cheeks or chin. They’re blocked oil glands, not infections.
✅ Completely harmless. They go away on their own within a few weeks.
Rashes that might need a closer look
1. Nappy rash
Caused by moisture, friction, or a reaction to wipes/creams. You’ll see redness, irritation, sometimes small bumps.
🩷 Try barrier creams, change nappies often, and give the skin time to air. If it gets worse, especially with broken skin or signs of infection, it’s worth getting checked.
2. Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)
Looks like small red bumps or blisters, especially in skin folds or where clothing is tight.
🧊 Keep your baby cool, use breathable fabrics, and avoid overdressing.
Warning signs: When a rash could be serious
One key thing to look for is a rash that doesn’t fade when you press on it (you can try this with a clear glass). If the red spots stay bright and don’t blanch, it could be a sign of something more serious, like meningococcal disease.
Other red flags:
Fever
Lethargy
Feeding poorly
Rash spreading quickly
Blisters or open sores
🚨 If you notice any of these, seek medical help straight away. You’re not overreacting — always better to be safe.
Insect bites on newborns: What they can look like
Living in Australia means sharing the outdoors with all kinds of bugs — especially if your home is near bushland. While bites on newborns are usually mild, some can become irritated or even infected. Here's what to look for:
🦟 Mosquito bites
Small red bumps that may swell slightly. Babies might scratch or rub them.
🐜 Ant bites
Especially from bull ants or green ants — can cause large red welts or clusters. Some babies have stronger reactions than others.
🕷 Spider bites
Can range from a small red dot to a swollen area with a central blister. Rarely dangerous, but always worth watching.
🐝 Bee & wasp stings
Painful and swollen, often with a visible sting site. Seek help immediately if you notice any signs of allergic reaction (swelling around the face, difficulty breathing).
🪰 Midge bites
Tiny red pinprick marks, often grouped together and very itchy.
🕷 Tick bites
Small dark spot stuck in the skin — check folds behind the ears, knees, and armpits. Remove carefully and monitor for symptoms like fatigue or rash.
🛏 Bedbug bites
Clusters of red dots, often in a line. They’re uncommon in clean homes but can show up after travel or visitors.
If you would like to know anything else about bites or see what they look like go and visit
So, what should you do?
Most newborn rashes are normal and clear up on their own. Some rashes or bites are worth watching and may need simple treatment. If something doesn’t seem right, always get it checked. Your baby can’t tell you what’s wrong, but your gut as a parent is powerful — if something feels off, trust that feeling.
There is so much more to learn about newborns. Do you wonder why your newborn sneezes so much? Have a read here...https://www.cradlecare.com.au/post/why-does-my-baby-sneeze-so-much
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