Introduction

Ever noticed your baby’s chin looking red and irritated? Teething babies drool a lot. And all that saliva coming out of their mouth can lead to irritated, red skin known as drool rash. It’s common, but it can be uncomfortable for your little one. 

It can occur when babies start teething, usually when they are between 6 and 24 months of age. They are red with slightly raised patches or small red bumps around the mouth, chin, cheeks, neck, and chest, particularly where drool tends to accumulate. It is a common and harmless ailment, although it can be uncomfortable for your infant.¹

Let's look at why this occurs and how to prevent and treat it.

Why Does Teething Cause Rashes?

When babies start teething, their gums get irritated.² To cope with that, their body creates more saliva, which results in excess drooling. However, excessive drool is not only messy, but it can also create a variety of skin issues.

Here is why:

• Wet skin gets inflamed; when saliva remains on the skin for a long period of time, it damages the natural barrier, causing the skin to become red and irritated
• Friction can worsen the condition. Babies rub their faces with their hands, bibs, or garments, which can worsen the rash
• Some babies have sensitive skin. Not all babies develop rashes, but those with delicate skin are more sensitive to moisture³

The end effect is little red bumps, dry patches, or irritated skin around the mouth, chin, and neck. If not treated, the rash may spread or become more uncomfortable.

What Does a Drool Rash Look Like?

Drool rash looks like red, irritated skin around a baby’s mouth, chin, and neck. It may also feel rough, dry, or bumpy. In some cases, the skin may appear swollen or even cracked.

This happens when drool remains on the skin for too long. When saliva dries up, enzymes that are left behind might damage the skin's natural barrier. If not properly cleaned, the rash will spread and get worse. In severe situations, the skin might become raw or infected.

The good news? It is straightforward to manage in a few simple steps. Keep the skin dry, apply a barrier lotion, and avoid anything harsh that could aggravate the problem.

How to Prevent Drool Rash

Drool rash develops when a baby's skin remains wet from drooling for an extended period of time, causing irritation and redness.⁴ To avoid this, follow these simple steps:

• Ensure Your Baby's Skin Stays Dry

Drool can be gently removed with a soft cotton cloth. Rubbing can irritate the skin. Pay specific attention to the mouth, chin, and neck.

• Apply barrier creams

Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or lanolin-based ointment to protect your baby's skin from saliva. These work as a barrier, keeping drool from irritating your baby's skin.⁵

• Change Bibs Frequently

If your baby wears a bib, make sure it is changed as soon as it gets damp. This keeps the skin dry and lowers the chances of a rash.

• Choose Soft Fabrics

To prevent friction on the skin, dress your baby in soft cotton and breathable fabrics. Avoid rough fabrics, which might irritate the skin more.

Keep your baby's skin dry, use protective creams, change bibs frequently, and choose soft fabrics to help avoid drool rash and keep your baby comfortable. 

Treating Drool Rash

Drool rash is common in babies due to constant moisture from saliva around the mouth, especially during teething. 

Here's how to treat it:

Keep skin clean and dry

• Gently cleanse the area: Warm water should be used to cleanse the affected skin twice daily. Avoid using soaps that are too harsh. Pat the area dry carefully; rubbing will irritate the baby's skin even more⁶

Protect your baby's skin

• Apply a Barrier Ointment: To protect your baby's skin from moisture, apply a thin coating of petroleum jelly, lanolin-based ointment, or zinc oxide-containing diaper cream (such as Desitin or Aquaphor)

Avoid Irritants

• Use Mild Products: Choose unscented, gentle baby soaps and shampoos during bath time. Avoid using lotions on the rash since they can irritate it even more⁷
• Laundry Care: To avoid more discomfort, wash your baby's clothes, bibs, and bedding with fragrance-free detergents

Natural Remedies

• Coconut Oil: Natural oils like coconut oil and shea butter can help soothe irritated skin. Another option is aloe vera gel, which has really good cooling and healing properties that may help reduce redness and irritation around the mouth

Consult a paediatrician when needed

• If the rash does not improve after a week of home care, appears cracked, or causes pain, see your baby's doctor as soon as possible. They may prescribe a modest hydrocortisone cream or other medicines

When to See a Doctor

Drool rashes are common in babies and often clear up with simple home care. However, there are times when it's best to consult a doctor:

If the rash does not cure after a week.

Most drool rashes heal within a few days with simple home remedies like keeping the area dry and applying light moisturisers.⁷ If there is no improvement after a week, you should contact a child’s doctor.

If a rash appears infected, symptoms may include:

• Skin with cracks or crusts
• Blisters or exposed sores
• Pus oozing out
• Increased swelling or redness

If you see any of these symptoms, please consult your child's doctor right away. 

If Your Baby Is Uncomfortable or in Pain

Drool rashes can be annoying and uncomfortable for babies, but they should not cause too much discomfort. If your infant is very much annoyed and appears to be in pain, or is having difficulty feeding or sleeping as a result of the rash, get medical attention right away.

If the Rash is Accompanied by Other Symptoms

If the rash is accompanied by a fever, lethargy, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek medical attention immediately, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.

Remember, while drool rashes are usually harmless, keeping an eye on the rash and your baby's overall well-being ensures they stay comfortable and healthy.

Conclusion

Drool rash is a normal and harmless phase of a baby's teething process, although it can be painful if not treated correctly. The goal is to keep your baby's skin clean and dry, apply mild barrier moisturisers, and avoid irritants. Most rashes heal fast with proper daily attention.

However, if the rash increases and shows indications of infection, or causes your baby discomfort, consult a doctor. A little extra care will go a long way towards keeping your baby's skin healthy and happy!

Summary

Drool rash is a common skin reaction caused by too much saliva in teething babies. It develops as red, bumpy, or dry areas around the mouth, chin, and neck. Keeping your baby's skin dry, using barrier lotions, and wearing soft fabrics can all help prevent it. 

Treatment consists of carefully cleaning the area, application of protective ointments, and avoiding the use of harsh products. While most rashes clear up on their own with home care, a doctor should be called if the rash worsens, appears infectious, or causes discomfort. With proper care, drool rash can be effectively treated, keeping your baby's skin healthy and irritation-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cream is best for drool rash?

The best creams for drool rash are petroleum jelly, zinc oxide creams like Desitin, and lanolin-based ointments. If prescribed, hydrocortisone (1%) may be effective. 

Can I use breastmilk to treat drool rash?

Yes, breastmilk can help soothe drool rash. It possesses natural antibodies and anti-inflammatory qualities that aid healing. Apply a few drops to the affected area and allow it to dry completely before applying a barrier cream.  If the rash worsens or doesn't improve, see a doctor.