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Best Red Light Therapy Devices For Getting An At-home Glow-up

Red light. Green light. Orange light. Blue light. With so many different LED light therapy devices on the market approved for at-home use, it can be hard to know which one (or ones) you need to target your specific skincare concerns. The best red light therapy devices can help turn back the hands of time, improving the texture and appearance of skin, boosting collagen and fighting wrinkles, fine lines and acne. They can also be beneficial for things like hair growth, inflammation and muscle recovery post-workout.

While red light therapy isn't a magic tool or a quick fix by any means, when used appropriately and consistently over time, the results can be quite impressive. Whether you're looking to even out your skin tone, zap the blemishes away or smooth fine lines, we've rounded up the best red light therapy devices for every issue. Let's glow!

What to consider when buying the best red light therapy devices Your goals

New York State licensed esthetician, laser technician and oncology esthetician, Rachel Lozina, founder of Blue Water Spa in Oyster Bay, New York, recommends taking into account what your number one goal is prior to purchasing. "For example, if your goal is anti-aging," she says, "you would want to look at red LED, infrared LED and far infrared LED, because these wavelengths are best suited for stimulating collagen and elastin and increasing circulation within the skin cell structure."

If acne is your biggest concern, Lozina says blue LED is the way to go "because this hits right at the sebaceous gland and minimizes oil activity and productivity. If you're looking to heal wounds and help aches and pains then you want to use an infrared wavelength." Many red light therapy devices are multi-purpose, too, so you can pick one that offers everything.

Features

Navin S. Arora, DO, FAAD, founder of Borealis Dermatology, advises looking for devices with adjustable settings such as intensity levels, timer settings and various wavelengths to suit your individual requirements.

Safety

Red light therapy is generally considered safe for all skin types. To guarantee safety and effectiveness, Arora recommends making sure that the device you choose is FDA-cleared or CE certified.

Brand reputation

When in doubt, opt for a red light therapy device from a brand or big beauty retailer with a trusted reputation. "Research reputable brands known for producing high-quality red light therapy devices with positive customer reviews," adds Arora.

Budget

"Determine your budget range, as prices for red light therapy devices can vary significantly," notes Arora. Some come in under $100 and are very affordable, whereas others are much more sophisticated and/or powerful and can set you back hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.

Our top picks for the best red light therapy devices Best red light therapy mask: Omnilux Contour Face

The Omnilux Contour comes highly recommended by skin care experts and users alike, with over 1,000 five-star reviews. "It's on the pricier end, but the contour shape fits nearly everyone comfortably and enables the red light to reach all around the face for maximum efficacy," says Dr. Corey L. Hartman, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.

Lozina agrees, noting that "it's the easiest and most user-friendly of all the LED lights because it's hands-free. You can charge it in advance and literally walk around your house and do your dishes with it on, so long as you don't mind scaring your husband or kids!" She also notes that it can be used on your neck or hands, and "you can get it wet and wipe it down — it's really durable."

It works fairly fast to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, redness and skin pigmentation too, with only three to five 10-minute treatments needed per week and results in as little as four to six weeks. "The device is FDA-cleared for use and Omnilux backs up the claims with strong, clinically reviewed and published research," adds Hartman.

Specifications:
  • Device type: Mask.
  • Treatment area: Face.
  • Treatment time: 10 minutes, 3-5x per week.
  • LED type: Red and near-infrared.
  • FDA-approved: Yes.
  • Price on publish: $395.
    • What we like:
  • Comfortable and easy to use.
  • Hands-free.
  • FDA-cleared.
  • Clinically proven benefits.
  • Durable.
    • What we don't like:
  • Doesn't treat the lip area.
    • The AP Buyline takeaway:

    The Omnilux Contour is comfortable, hands-free and boasts clinically proven results for skin rejuvenation and anti-aging.

    Get it here: Omnilux Contour Face

    Best affordable red light therapy device: Skin Gym Revilit LED Light Wand

    Best affordable

    Skin Gym Revilit LED Light Wand

    Small but mighty, this wireless wand is not just well-priced, it's versatile, treating a variety of skin concerns. At only $80, it features red light to help with redness and aging, calming green light to target hyperpigmentation, and blue light to zap away acne. "For the price and quality, this was worth the purchase," raves one reviewer. "I'm literally obsessed with this thing," adds another. "It has done wonders for my acne-prone and sensitive skin."

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Wand.
  • Treatment area: Face and body.
  • Treatment time: 3 minutes per area, 2-4x per week.
  • LED type: Red, green and blue.
  • FDA-approved: No.
  • Price on publish: $79.99.
    • What we like:
  • Affordable.
  • Multipurpose.
  • Can be used on the face and body.
  • Features three types of LED light therapy to target a variety of skin concerns.
  • Wireless for on-the-go use.
    • What we don't like:
  • Each area takes 3 minutes to treat, so can be time-consuming if you have a lot of areas to do.
    • The AP Buyline takeaway:

    This affordable wireless wand targets a variety of complexion concerns with blue, red and green light — plus, it's easy to use anywhere.

    Get it here: Skin Gym Revilit LED Light Wand

    Best handheld red light therapy device: Solawave 4-In-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand

    Best handheld

    Solawave 4-In-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand

    Hartman and so many others, myself included, praise the highly popular handheld Solawave. "I like it as a combo treatment not only to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but also to treat active acne blemishes," says Hartman. "It can be used in tandem with your favorite skincare serum to help absorption and efficacy of the serum. The small head also makes it easy to use all over the face and get into the small contoured areas around the jaw and nose."

    In addition to red light therapy, it uses galvanic current to boost serum and cream absorption, therapeutic warmth to depuff skin and low vibration for a gentle facial massage. It's quick and easy to use, too, only requiring 3 minutes a day, three times a week.

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Wand.
  • Treatment area: Face and neck.
  • Treatment time: 3 minutes, 3x per week.
  • LED type: Red.
  • FDA-approved: No.
  • Price on publish: $169.
    • What we like:
  • Multipurpose tool to treat a variety of skin concerns.
  • Handheld for ease of use.
  • Minimal time commitment (3 minutes, 3x per week).
  • Small head to target hard-to-reach areas.
    • What we don't like: The AP Buyline takeaway:

    This 4-in-1 red light therapy wand works wonders on skin, brightening, tightening, de-puffing and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles in mere minutes.

    Get it here: Solawave 4-In-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand

    Best multitasking red light therapy device: Theraface PRO Microcurrent Facial Device

    Best multitasking

    Theraface PRO Microcurrent Facial Device

    If you're looking for a red light therapy device that can do it all, Theraface PRO is a safe bet. This award-winning, all-in-one tool is a relaxing facial massager with a slew of skin care treatments built right in. It comes with three percussive attachments to help relieve tension in the face, neck, jaw and head; a microcurrent ring to firm and tighten skin; a cleansing ring to remove build-up of dirt, oil and debris; and an LED light therapy ring featuring red, blue and infrared light to help fight acne and wrinkles, particularly around the eye area.

    "Skip a few expensive facials and pick this baby up instead for long-term, frequent use at a crazy value," writes one reviewer. "I love that it combines so many skin care tools in one!"

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Facial massager with microcurrent, cleansing and LED ring.
  • Treatment area: Face, neck, head.
  • Treatment time: Max of 8 minutes.
  • LED type: Red, blue, infrared.
  • FDA-approved: No.
  • Price on publish: $399.
    • What we like:
  • Facial massager and multipurpose skin care device in one.
  • Massage and light therapy can be used together.
  • FDA-Cleared Type II Medical Device.
    • What we don't like: The AP Buyline takeaway:

    This all-in-one skincare device saves on space and time, relieving neck and facial tension while reducing wrinkles and acne.

    Get it here: Theraface PRO Microcurrent Facial Device

    Best luxury red light therapy device: Dermalux Flex MD LED Light Therapy Device

    Best luxury

    Dermalux Flex MD LED Light Therapy Device

    Dubbed the world's most powerful, portable LED system for home use, the Dermalux Flex lives up to the hype, and the before and after pictures prove it. It features an impressive 360 lights in total, including blue, red and near-infrared, to reduce hyperpigmentation, redness and any visible signs of aging. It's also FDA-approved for use on both the face and body, making it one of the most versatile devices on our list. Because it's so big, it's also easy to treat large areas at once.

    The Dermalux Flex is medically CE certified for psoriasis, acne, wound healing and pain relief, so while it is pricey, the benefits and uses abound. Kate Moss and Megan Markle are both considered fans of the brand, and celebrity esthetician Deisy Suarez-Gilles also gives it the seal of approval. She personally likes it for its multitasking abilities, combining red light with other LEDs to treat nearly any issue.

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Flex MD base unit with flexible LED canopy.
  • Treatment area: Face and body.
  • Treatment time: 30 minutes.
  • LED type: Red, near-infrared and blue.
  • FDA-approved: Yes.
  • Price on publish: $2,495.
    • What we like:
  • FDA-approved for face and body.
  • Treats a variety of skin concerns and can be used for pain relief and wound healing.
  • Big enough to treat large areas at once.
  • Includes protective goggles and treatment pillow.
    • What we don't like:
  • It's expensive.
  • Sessions are 30 minutes so it can be time consuming.
    • The AP Buyline takeaway:

    This powerful LED system is worth the splurge for clinic-grade results in the comfort of your own home, saving you money in the long run.

    Get it here: Dermalux Flex MD LED Light Therapy Device

    Best clinical-grade red light therapy device: Qure Q-Rejuvalight Pro Facewear

    Best clinical-grade device

    Q-Rejuvalight Pro Facewear

    Qure promises to give in-office treatment results at home with their app-connected and scientifically-proven Q-Rejuvalight Pro Facewear mask. Users can choose between three different treatment modes — anti-aging, anti-breakout or custom zones — for the ultimate glow-up. The mask features five wavelengths of light to help enhance product absorption, build collagen, repair age spots and sun damage, reduce the appearance of dark spots, prevent breakouts, calm redness and so much more.

    It's very easy to use via the app as well. Just select the treatment you want on five different facial areas, sit back, relax and wait for the mask to automatically shut off after a quick three minutes.

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Mask.
  • Treatment area: Face.
  • Treatment time: 3 minutes.
  • LED type: Red, deep red, infrared, amber and blue.
  • FDA-approved: No.
  • Price on publish: $329.
    • What we like:
  • FDA-cleared with clinically proven results.
  • Treatment is quick, wireless and hands-free.
  • Three treatment modes to address individual skin concerns.
  • Protective eyewear included.
    • What we don't like:
  • May not be suited for darker skin types V and VI (dermatologist consultation recommended before use).
    • The AP Buyline takeaway:

    This clinically proven mask is fast and easy to use via the app and can be customized to treat five different facial areas for wrinkles, breakouts, sun damage and more.

    Get it here: Qure Q-Rejuvalight Pro Facewear

    Best red light therapy device for travel: reVive Light Therapy Lux Collection Glō

    Best for travel

    reVive Light Therapy Lux Collection Glō

    Combat wrinkles and pimples in one portable LED device, which lets you treat all your skincare concerns at once or separately — a huge selling point for us as it cuts down on lengthy treatment times, especially when you're traveling. The handheld wand is easy to pack for a weekend getaway or longer work trips, thanks to its compact size. Treatment times are only three minutes, so you're done in a flash, quite literally. "It's smaller than my makeup brush," writes one reviewer. "And it's rechargeable so you're not hooked to a cord.

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Wand.
  • Treatment area: Face and neck.
  • Treatment time: 3 minutes per area.
  • LED type: Red, infrared, amber, blue.
  • FDA-approved: No.
  • Price on publish: $79.
    • What we like:
  • FDA-cleared and safe for all skin types.
  • Treats acne and anti-aging concerns separately or together.
  • Compact and rechargeable for travel.
  • Affordable.
    • What we don't like:
  • For the best results, the brand recommends using three times a day per area, which may turn some users off.
    • The AP Buyline takeaway:

    This dual acne and anti-aging wand simultaneously targets your skin concerns and is super compact for travel.

    Get it here: reVive Light Therapy Lux Collection Glō

    Best red light therapy device for blemishes: LightStim For Acne

    Best for blemishes

    LightStim for Acne (1 Kit)

    "LightStim is a good option for anyone with mild to moderate acne," says Hartman. "It's effective at treating acne at home, as it uses a mix of red and blue light to treat the skin. It's easy to use, and with consistent use, most people will see an improvement in their skin overall within four weeks." The device works via UV-free blue and red lights to destroy bacteria, calm inflammation and help prevent future breakouts without drying or damaging skin.

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Wand.
  • Treatment area: Face.
  • Treatment time: 3 minutes.
  • LED type: Red and blue.
  • FDA-approved: No.
  • Price on publish: $169.
    • What we like:
  • Fast treatment times.
  • FDA cleared.
  • Great for acne spot treatments.
    • What we don't like:
  • It has to be plugged in to use (not wireless).
  • Can take 30 minutes to cover your entire face.
    • The AP Buyline takeaway:

    Lightstim is great for quick spot treatments, and those who want a fast-acting red light therapy device to target mild to moderate acne.

    Get it here: LightStim For Acne

    Best red light therapy device for uneven skin tone: CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask

    Best for uneven skin tone

    CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face MaskFDA Cleared

    This luxe LED mask has thousands of 5-star reviews and features 132 bulbs, delivering 66 red and 66 near-infrared wavelengths to help calm redness, even out skin tone and boost collagen and blood circulation for a brighter, more glowing complexion. It's made with patented pillow technology to ensure complete skin coverage for maximum absorption and the best possible results in just 10 minutes. 95% of users have seen improved skin texture, tone and firmness, and the reviews don't lie.

    "Redness in my skin disappeared after the first use," writes one reviewer. "My skin is noticeably more glowy and clearer. It's more even. I don't need foundation anymore and I've only been using this for a month."

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Mask.
  • Treatment area: Face.
  • Treatment time: 10 minutes a day, 3-5x per week.
  • LED type: Red and near-infrared.
  • FDA-approved: No.
  • Price on publish: $380.
    • What we like:
  • More powerful than any other LED mask.
  • Optimal skin coverage for max absorption.
  • FDA-cleared with clinically proven results.
    • What we don't like:
  • Some users say the mask doesn't stay in place so they have to use it lying down.
    • The AP Buyline takeaway:

    From dark spots and redness to fine lines and wrinkles, this popular and powerful mask is clinically proven to give results in just four weeks.

    Get it here: CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask

    Best red light therapy device for face and neck: Glotech Mask Pro + Collar

    Best for face and neck

    Glotech Mask Pro + Collar

    Get ready for all the compliments, because your skin will be gorgeous and glowing after just a few weeks of using this FDA-cleared and dermatologist-recommended mask and collar combo. It's soft, comfortable and has you covered from the chest up, so you can tackle all your trouble areas in one go. The rechargeable wireless design means you can use it anywhere, anytime, making it super convenient, especially for a busy mom like me. Just select your treatment mode and go, as the mask and collar will shut off automatically when done.

    Results are fast and can be seen in as little as three weeks with 10-minute daily treatments. The mask features red, blue and near-infrared light to combat signs of aging and to help clear up acne. Compared to other masks, Glotech has more wavelengths and a higher maximum irradiance, which basically translates to quicker, more visible results.

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Mask and collar.
  • Treatment area: Face, neck, décolleté, chest.
  • Treatment time: 10 minutes, daily.
  • LED type: Red, blue and near-infrared.
  • FDA-approved: No.
  • Price on publish: $609.
    • What we like:
  • Wireless and rechargeable.
  • FDA-cleared with clinically proven benefits.
  • Can be used for anti-aging and/or acne.
  • Covers face, neck and chest.
  • Works fast, with visible results in as little as three weeks.
    • What we don't like: The AP Buyline takeaway:

    If you want fast results and full coverage from the chest and neck up, Glotech is one of the best LED face masks for acne and anti-aging.

    Get it here: Glotech Mask Pro + Collar

    Best hands-free red light therapy device: Maysam PRANA LED Light Therapy Mask

    Best hands-free devide

    Maysam PRANA LED Light Therapy Mask

    There's a lot to love about this hands-free red light therapy mask, which, unlike many others, treats the mouth and lip area too. It uses pulsed light technology to help improve the absorption of your skincare products and accelerate cell proliferation. There are three light modes to choose from: red only to enhance skin tone and texture, red and near-infrared to boost collagen and reduce inflammation and magenta (a combination of red and blue) to treat acne-prone skin. Reviewers also rave about how comfortable it is, thanks to the flexible material.

    Specifications:
  • Device type: Mask.
  • Treatment area: Face, including mouth and lips.
  • Treatment time: 6 minutes.
  • LED type: Red, near-infrared, magenta.
  • FDA-approved: No.
  • Price on publish: $419.
    • What we like:
  • Covers the mouth/lips.
  • Uses pulsed light technology for better skincare absorption.
  • Three light modes to choose from depending on your skin concerns.
    • What we don't like:
  • It's one of the more expensive masks on our list.
    • The AP Buyline takeaway:

    This mask is ultra-comfortable and hands-free, using pulsed light technology to better aid the absorption of your skincare products.

    Get it here: Maysam PRANA LED Light Therapy Mask

    How we selected the best red light therapy devices

    For this piece, I spoke with several experts, including two board-certified dermatologists, a licensed esthetician and laser technician, a celebrity esthetician and the founder of Maysama, an evidence-based, woman-owned brand offering pulsed red light therapy tools. I asked each for their insight on what to look for in the best red light therapy devices, and share their favorites across many categories.

    I also did plenty of research to narrow down the most popular and trusted brands and only included red light therapy wands and masks with overwhelmingly positive reviews and ratings. A couple of the devices on this list I've had the chance to try myself, though not long enough yet to see full results.

    How to effectively use red light therapy devices Cleanse and hydrate your skin

    Making sure your skin is clean and free of any products before using a light therapy device is key to absorbing the maximum amount of light, according to Arora.

    According to Bev May Sanderson, founder of Maysama, light penetrates hydrated skin better, so it's also prudent to use hydrating skincare such as misters, toners or water or gel-based serums as a pre-LED treatment.

    Follow instructions

    For your safety and best results, read the user manual carefully before you begin and follow the guidelines for light therapy treatment during the process. If you're more of a visual person like me, many brands will also have instructional videos with tips and tutorials to help you achieve optimal results and learn how to best operate and use your device.

    Be consistent

    Consistency is key! Especially since, according to Sanderson, it can take weeks to months to see results. Commit to regular light therapy treatments by making it a part of your morning or evening routine.

    Protect your eyes

    Arora tells us you should always wear protective goggles or keep your eyes closed when using red light therapy devices to avoid potential eye damage. Some devices may even come with protective eyewear.

    Benefits of red light therapy

    There are many benefits of red light therapy, from improving skin tone and texture to reducing fine lines, wrinkles and blemishes, to helping with pain relief, inflammation, wound healing and hair growth.

    What is the difference between LED light therapy and red light therapy?

    While these terms are often used interchangeably, Arora tells us there are some key differences: "Red light therapy typically uses wavelengths between 630-700nm, while LED therapy may incorporate a broader spectrum of wavelengths." He also notes that red light therapy is more specific in addressing certain skin and health concerns, while LED therapy may offer more generalized benefits, saying that "red light therapy devices tend to provide higher intensity and concentrated light for targeted treatments."

    Frequently asked questions (FAQs) Is red light therapy at home effective?

    Definitely! "LEDs have made low-level light therapy more accessible and more affordable, so it is now becoming extremely popular for at-home use," says Sanderson. "Researchers have narrowed the optimal window for healing and biostimulation to just 2-10 joules/cm2, which is easily achieved with many at-home LED devices, from masks to panels."

    Is it safe to use red light therapy devices?

    If used correctly, yes. It's crucial to follow the manufacturer's guidelines to prevent any adverse effects, and avoid direct eye exposure to the light.

    How often should you use a red light therapy device?

    This depends on your specific goals and the device you are using. Each device has instructions for recommended treatment times and suggested frequency, depending on your needs.

    Which skin types can benefit from red light therapy?

    According to Arora, all skin types can benefit from red light therapy, but individuals with concerns such as acne, fine lines, wrinkles and inflammation may find it particularly beneficial. Studies have shown red light therapy can help improve skin tone, increase collagen production, reduce inflammation and promote healing. Sanderson adds that "ladies of color should consider using pulsed LED light, as pulsed light has been shown to better penetrate melanin-rich skin."


    Home Jaundice Treatment Available Due To Funding

    Newborn babies cared for by an NHS trust can receive treatment for jaundice in their own homes thanks to new funding.

    Traditionally, families have had to take their babies to hospital for treatment.

    But after funding from Royal Surrey Charity, a trained healthcare professional from the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust will visit homes equipped with portable phototherapy devices.

    Jo Macleod, consultant neonatal nurse at Royal Surrey, said: "We know the toing and froing to hospital disrupts the bonding period for families and can create stress."

    Jaundice is a common condition in newborn babies caused by elevated levels of bilirubin, a yellow pigment found naturally in the blood.

    While normal for babies to have the condition to some degree, in a very small number of cases it can develop into permanent brain damage and must be treated.

    The standard treatment is exposure to light waves, known as phototherapy.

    The new at-home phototherapy project is backed by £30,000 of funding from Royal Surrey Charity that was secured through the trust's Bid for Better 2023 initiative.

    Ms Macleod added: "Treating jaundice in the home is simple with the right equipment and not only enhances convenience for families but also promotes bonding and reduces the stress associated with hospital visits."


    How To Spot And Take Care Of Your Newborn's Rash

    Medically reviewed by Daniel Combs, MD

    Newborns commonly get skin rashes on various parts of their body. Most are harmless and resolve on their own. However, severe jaundice, eczema, or persistent diaper rash require medical intervention. Understanding the different types of newborn skin variations can help you know when to contact a healthcare provider.

    This article covers common newborn rashes, how to treat them at home, and when to contact a healthcare provider.

    Common Rashes in Newborns

    Newborns can have skin variations at birth or a few days after delivery. Common rashes in newborns include the following:

  • Pink pimples

  • Erythema toxicum

  • Milia

  • Salmon patches

  • Jaundice

  • Congenital melanocytosis

    • This section explores the causes and treatments for these common newborn rashes.

    Pink Pimples

    Pink pimples (newborn acne) are tiny red, pink, or white bumps that may appear on a baby's face, chest, or back. They appear within the first few weeks of life in 30% of newborns. They are harmless and usually fade away within a few weeks. Gentle soap and water can help keep the baby's skin clean.

    Henadzi Pechan / Getty Images

    Erythema Toxicum

    Erythema toxicum is red bumps (sometimes with pus or a red ring around them) on the baby's face, chest, back, and near the arms or legs. This rash affects 30% to 70% of newborns, typically in the first few days of life. It may cause mild irritation but usually resolves without treatment in about a week or two.

    Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Raimo Suhonen dermnetnz.Org 2023.

    Milia

    Milia (milk spots) are blocked oil glands that affect almost half of newborns. These small, white, or yellowish bumps can appear on a baby's nose, cheeks, forehead, or chin. They typically show up at birth, though premature babies might get them later.

    Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.Org 2023.

    Does My Baby Need Treatment for Milia?

    Babies do not typically require treatment for milia. As the pores open, spots usually disappear on their own within a month or two. To prevent irritation, keep the baby's face clean with gentle soap and water and avoid squeezing or picking at the milia.

    Salmon Patches (Nevus Simplex)

    Salmon patches (nevus simplex) are flat, salmon (pink-orange), pink, or red birthmarks that appear in 30% to 40% of newborns. They do not cause discomfort and typically fade within a few months to a few years. Laser therapy can be an option if they don't go away. Depending on the location, you may hear people call these:

  • Stork bites: On the back of the neck

  • Angel kisses: Between the eyes

  • Salmon patches: Other parts of the body

    • Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.Org 2023.

    Jaundice

    Jaundice is the yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Neonatal (newborn) jaundice can occur as the liver learns to clean out bilirubin (a specific type of waste) from the blood. It's common and usually goes away on its own within a few weeks, but it's important to tell the infant's healthcare provider so they can monitor the baby.

    Jaundice Treatment

    Providers might suggest exposing the baby to sunlight for a short time. If the jaundice is severe, the baby might need special lights and fluids in the hospital to help eliminate the bilirubin.

    Congenital Melanocytosis

    Congenital melanocytosis is a harmless flat, gray-blue, blue-black, or bluish-green area that resembles a bruise. It typically appears at birth or within a few weeks on the back or buttocks of newborns with dark skin. It occurs when pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) are trapped deep in the skin. Congenial melanocytosis typically fades by school age.

    Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.Org 2023.

    Common Rashes in the First Few Months of Life

    In the first few months of life, babies can develop rashes due to oil buildup, sensitive skin, eczema, irritants, heat, or infection.

    Cradle Cap

    Seborrheic dermatitis (cradle cap) causes red, scaly areas with greasy, yellow scales or dry, flaky patches due to oil and dead skin buildup. It can occur on the scalp, ears, face, and skin folds. Cradle cap affects around 10% of babies under 4 weeks old but is most common around 3 months.

    Cradle cap is not harmful and usually gets better on its own. Baby oil can help reduce crusting before gently washing and brushing the baby's hair. If it persists, your provider may prescribe a cream or shampoo.

    Eczema

    Eczema (atopic dermatitis) makes the skin itchy, dry, and scaly, leading to red and swollen patches. It often starts on the cheeks and forehead before spreading to skin creases, elbows, and knees. Babies may scratch these areas, causing discomfort and bleeding, making it difficult for them to rest. About 60% of infants with eczema will have symptoms by age one. Babies with a family history of allergies are at higher risk of eczema.

    Eczema Treatment

    Infants with eczema often get allergies or asthma as they age. Treatment involves gentle skin care and avoiding triggers like harsh soaps, dry air, and pet dander. You can also use a cool washcloth or colloidal oatmeal in a lukewarm bath to reduce itching and swelling. In severe cases, a healthcare provider may suggest steroid creams.

    Heat Rash

    When sweat ducts clog, sweat leaks into the layers of the skin, causing a heat rash (miliaria). It affects up to 40% of infants, often in the first month of life. One of its two types causes tiny, clear blisters without redness in areas like the neck and underarms. The other causes small red bumps on the forehead, upper body, and covered areas that get hot.

    Preventing and Treating Heat Rash

    Dressing newborns in light clothes and keeping them cool during hot or humid weather can help prevent and treat heat rash.

    Related: What a Heat Rash Looks Like on Darker Skin (and What to Do Next)

    Diaper Dermatitis

    Diaper dermatitis (diaper rash) leads to over a million clinic visits in the United States yearly. The wetness from urine and stool breaks down the skin's protective barrier, causing redness and discomfort. Some diapers, baby wipes, creams, or detergents can also irritate the diaper area.

    Treatment involves keeping the area clean and dry and using diaper creams with minimal ingredients, which typically helps resolve the rash within a few days.

    Fungal Infections

    Persistent diaper rashes might result from fungi or yeast, causing itchy skin, with red or white dry or scaly patches, bumps, or blisters. Yeast infections often appear in moist, dark areas like the diaper area and skin folds. It can occur when babies or breastfeeding parents take antibiotics. Your provider may suggest an antifungal cream.

    What Is a Rash On a Newborn's Chest?

    Newborns can have chest rashes from drool, erythema toxicum, heat, eczema, or baby acne.

    Related: How to Spot and Take Care of Your Baby's Rash

    When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

    If your baby has a fever or seems sick, or if the rash is spreading rapidly, causing discomfort, or not improving, see a healthcare provider right away. Watch for signs of discomfort like ear pulling, tongue thrusting, fussiness, and clinginess. If your baby has hives (allergic rash) and difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.

    Summary

    Newborn skin abnormalities and rashes are common and often harmless. They include baby acne, cradle cap, birthmarks, diaper rash, eczema, and heat rash. Most go away independently or with home care, but some may need treatment. Contact a healthcare provider if the baby seems uncomfortable and the rash worsens.

    Read the original article on Verywell Health.

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