Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsCausesSymptomsRemediesWhen to See a Provider
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Causes
Symptoms
Remedies
When to See a Provider
Because babies, especially teething babies, produce excess saliva, they often develop a rash under or around the mouth.
This article explains why drool rash happens, ways to care for the irritation, and signs that a rash may be something more serious.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See Photo
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Why Do Babies Get Drool Rash?
Drooling causes drool rash in nearly all infants and young children.This is because the constant moisture, or wetness, on the skin from drooling causes irritation. It is also because wiping or dabbing the drool with a rough cloth, shirt, or blanket can cause further irritation to an infant’s incredibly delicate skin.
Repeat friction from wiping can also increase discomfort in the area and may increase the risk of rash infection if the skin breaks.
Causes of drool rash include:
What Is a Teething Rash?
Symptoms of a Drool Rash on Babies
Drool rash symptoms include:
Drool rash symptoms can appear on the following:
Drool rash symptoms will become noticeable during this time and may last for weeks, despite your best efforts to reduce symptoms.
Easing Drool Rash
Keep the Area Dry
You can use a soft cloth and warm water to remove food particles that can create irritation and rash. Avoid using textured or rough fabrics or paper towels, since these could make the irritation worse.
After you finish, ensure the face and chest area are dry. Using a bib during meal times can also help protect the chest area from food particles and drool.
Apply Ointment
Drool Rash vs. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD): What Are the Differences?
Soothe Teething Pain and Inflammation
Signs a Rash Needs Medical Attention
Drool rash is typically nothing to worry about. However, you may want to consider consulting with your pediatrician in these circumstances:
A Guide to Infant Teething
Summary
While a drool rash is a common occurrence in most children, it’s important to note anyadditional signs and symptoms like fever or lethargythat require further medical attention. When in doubt, contact your pediatrician.
6 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Newborn skin 101.
Stanford Medicine Children’s Health.Teething.
Patel M.Oral cavity andCandida albicans: Colonisation to the development of infection.Pathogens. 2022;11(3):335. doi:10.3390/pathogens11030335
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