Baby rash navigation can be daunting for new parents, and when teething and drool rash enter the scene, it can be downright overwhelming. These benign skin irritations may leave your baby feeling uncomfortable, but with a bit of knowledge and TLC, you can soothe their sensitive skin.
Teething rash and drool rash are usually discussed as though they’re interchangeable terms, and rightly so — both are due to the additional saliva babies generate when teething. All that slobber has the potential to break down the natural barrier of the skin, causing redness, bumps, or chapped areas around the mouth, chin, and neck. Although these rashes are typically harmless, they can make your baby rather uncomfortable if not treated.
How the rash appears can differ from baby to baby. You may notice tiny, red bumps that are a little rough to the touch, or dry, chapped areas that resemble eczema, particularly if your child has sensitive skin. Your baby may also rub their face more, pull at their ears, or just seem more cranky than normal due to the discomfort.
Preventing and treating teething and drool rash often go hand in hand. The overall aim is to keep your baby’s skin clean, dry, and covered. Wiping away drool with a soft, absorbent cloth during the day can help prevent moisture from wearing down the skin. Don’t rub the skin, though — patting is better, since rubbing can make irritation worse.
Wearing a barrier cream does help. A thin film of petroleum jelly or healing ointment such as Aquaphor can cushion the skin against drool and aid healing. Some parents swear by coconut oil, too, due to its natural antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Whichever you use, be sure to reapply as necessary, particularly after washing your baby’s face.
Bibs are a must-have for catching drool before it causes problems. Look for soft, absorbent bibs and swap them out whenever they get damp. Wet clothes can rub and irritate your baby’s skin even more, so changing outfits frequently can also help keep rashes at bay.
When it’s time to clean, use gentle, fragrance-free baby products. Lukewarm water is ideal, and when finished, pat the skin dry with a soft cloth. It’s also a good idea to wash anything that touches your baby’s face frequently, such as pacifiers, toys, and blankets, to reduce possible irritants.
Teething rash usually resolves with basic home treatment most of the time, but it’s a good idea to monitor it. If the rash becomes extremely red, cracked, or begins to ooze, it could be infected and require a visit to the doctor. You should also call your pediatrician if the rash does not improve within a few days, spreads to other parts of the body, or is accompanied by a fever above 101 degrees.
Keep in mind, teething and drool rashes are a natural aspect of your baby’s development. With a bit of added caution and concern, you can make your little one as comfortable and content as possible during this process.
More for you: