What does erythema toxicum typically look like on a newborn's skin?

Erythema toxicum is a common neonatal skin condition characterized by small white or yellow pinpoint papules that are often surrounded by an erythematous (red) base. This rash typically appears within the first few days of life and is most frequently observed on the face, trunk, and extremities. The lesions can vary in scale and can sometimes appear to change in size or disappear only to reappear in different areas, which can be concerning for new parents; however, the condition is benign and self-limiting.

Unlike other skin conditions, erythema toxicum is not associated with blisters filled with clear fluid, crusty sores, or large flat red patches. These distinctions are important for healthcare providers and parents to recognize in order to avoid misinterpretation of the rash as a sign of infection or another pathological condition. Proper identification and understanding of erythema toxicum help reassure caregivers that it is a normal phase of skin development in neonates.