My baby's finger is peeling. Why is this happening?

How old is your baby and is there any other symptoms such as fever, red/sore eyes, dry red lips, red tongue, skin rash, or swollen lymph nodes in the neck prior to this peeling? If your baby has had the other symptoms, he/she could be having Kawasaki disease. While the exact cause of this condition is unknown, it is likely due to an over-reaction of the baby’s body to an infection by a virus or bacteria. Peeling usually occurs in the later stages of this condition. Doctors would diagnose this based on the symptoms and children typically recovers well. Bring your baby to the doctor if you are worried. Applying moisturizer on the fingertips may help with the peeling. For more information on this condition: http://www.kkh.com.sg/HealthPedia/Pages/ChildhoodIllnessesHeartKawasakiDisease.aspx

A baby's circulatory system is still developing and blood is mainly channelled to vital organs and systems, where it's needed most. Therefore, baby's hands and feet are usually the last body parts to get a good blood supply. This could be a contributor to the peeling on his fingers. For newborns, it usually takes up to three months for his circulation to adapt completely to life post birth. As your baby grows older and becomes more mobile and active, his circulation will improve.