Drool Rash in Babies: How To Prevent And Treat It



Baby skin is incredibly soft, but too much saliva can lead to irritation, which may develop into a drool rash if it stays on your baby's chin, neck, or chest for too long. This is a common occurrence, especially when babies start teething. There's no need to worry—drooling is a normal part of a baby’s development. Keeping a cloth handy to wipe away saliva can help prevent irritation. Continue reading to learn more about drool rash, its causes, and how to treat and prevent it.

What is Drool Rash?

Drool rash, or dribble rash or teething rash, occurs when saliva irritates the skin around a baby's mouth after prolonged exposure. This can result in rashes that may cause discomfort but are not contagious or indicative of a serious health issue.

At What Age Does Drool Rash Typically Develop?


Drooling typically starts between 2-3 months when a baby’s salivary glands become more active, and it increases around 3-6 months as teething begins. It is during this teething phase that drool rash usually develops. However, it can sometimes appear as early as 2-3 months.

What Does Drool Rash Look Like?


Drool rash appears as red, irritated patches around the baby’s mouth, chin, cheeks, and neck. The affected areas might be dry, flaky, or slightly swollen, and in severe cases, the skin may crack or become painful. The skin may also feel warm to the touch.

How to Prevent Drool Rash


Although drooling is a natural part of early development and typically lasts until around two years of age, it’s important to manage it to prevent drool rash. Here are four common ways to help prevent drool rash:

Keep the Area Dry
  • Frequent gentle wiping with a soft cloth or absorbent bib can help keep the skin dry. Avoid rubbing the skin, as this can cause further irritation.

    Apply Barrier Creams
    Using a protective cream or ointment, like petroleum jelly or a baby-safe moisturizer, can create a barrier between saliva and the skin. Apply a thin layer before naps or bedtime to help protect the skin from drool.

    Use Absorbent Bibs
    Dress your baby in absorbent bibs made from soft, moisture-wicking fabrics. Change bibs frequently to keep the skin dry and reduce the chances of rash development.

    Maintain Skin Hygiene
    Clean your baby’s face and neck regularly with warm water and a mild, baby-safe soap. After washing, pat the skin dry and moisturize to keep it hydrated and less prone to irritation.

    When to See a Pediatrician for Drool Rash


    In most cases, drool rash is a mild irritation that can be managed with home care. However, you should consult a pediatrician if:

    • The rash doesn’t improve after a few days of home care or worsens.
    • The rash is accompanied by swelling, warmth, pus, or crusting, which could indicate a bacterial infection.
    • Your baby shows signs of discomfort, excessive fussiness, or pain from the rash.
    • The rash spreads beyond the mouth, chin, and neck to other areas of the body.

    A pediatrician can assess the rash and recommend medicated creams or ointments to help it heal more quickly and alleviate discomfort.

    Takeaway

    Although drool rash can be uncomfortable for your baby, it is a minor condition that can be treated easily at home. Using a bib to absorb saliva can help prevent the rash. If the rash becomes more severe or causes significant discomfort, consult a pediatrician for treatment options, such as medicated ointments, to speed up healing and reduce pain. 

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