What can I put on my newborn's skin, which is dry, scaly, red, and crusty?

My 3 1/2-month-old son had acne on his face as an infant, which has since cleared up, but now he has a rash on his shoulders, neck, arms, stomach and legs. My son's skin is awful to touch - it's dry, scaly, red, and crusty - and he scratches by rubbing against things.

Although it's difficult to diagnose your child without seeing him, the rash you describe sounds like it may be a form of eczema or atopic dermatitis. This is the most common rash seen in infants and often looks like red, scaly skin lesions. It is usually quite itchy - your baby may lose sleep or become irritable. While many cases will in fact clear up with time, several effective treatments are available. Some cases of eczema are treated with steroid creams, oral antihistamines or antibiotics. It is important to make sure his daily bath is short - no longer than 10 minutes - and to use warm water rather than hot. Finish with a liberal application of a thick moisturising cream and keep your son's skin well moisturised. I also recommend having your son examined by a doctor familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of skin problems. There is no reason for your son to be uncomfortable if he has a treatable condition. Best of luck.