Baby Acne- Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Like adults have acne, babies are also prone to get acne in their first few weeks of life. Children can develop acne typically anywhere in the body like the face, back and neck. Baby acne is sometimes present at birth and sometimes develops between 2 to 4 weeks after birth. They last ranging from a few weeks to months. What is baby acne? Do you baby have red outbreak all over her face and body?? Then your newborn is suffering from baby acne. Baby acne is defined as tiny red pimples or bumps that develop on the baby’s body and face. These pimples can have whiteheads and pustules that surround them. Baby acne can become more severe if the baby is crying and fussy all the time. Usually, baby acne develops from birth to within four weeks of age and may stick around for few months. Baby acne is very common and affects about 40 percent of the newborn. What causes baby acne? There is no defined perfect reason for baby acne. However, as with adult acne, newly formed acne can arise due to hormones. In an adult, the body’s hormones play a role in the development of acne. However, in baby acne, the mother’s hormones circulating in the bloodstream are a trigger for the baby to develop acne. The maternal hormones trigger the baby’s oil glands causing acne and pimples to pop out on the cheeks, forehead, chin, neck and back. As baby’s skin pores are not entirely developed, further infiltration of dirt results in worsening of acne.
Symptoms of baby acne Baby acne is characterized by white or red small bump on the baby’s face and neck. These red bumps can also develop into pustules if acne worsens. Baby acne is harmless and causes no trouble to your baby. Also if the mother is on certain medications during breastfeeding, this might trigger baby acne. In some cases, the baby’s skin may be having an allergic reaction to a skincare product. If you are wondering how long does baby acne last, then do not worry. They disappear in a few weeks of time.
Treatment of baby acne If you are wondering how to treat acne, but you may be surprised to know that there is no such specific treatment. Baby acne disappears on its own without any treatment. Some last for a few weeks while some last for a few months but usually go on its own without any treatment. Since baby’s skin is very sensitive and delicate, it is advised not to use any over the counter skin care acne treatment, creams or lotions. Over the counter creams and lotions can further cause skin irritation and worsen acne. Home remedies for baby acne If you are wondering how to get rid of baby acne, there are simple home remedies and useful tips that can help you ease the condition. 1} Keep baby’s face clean: Wash the baby’s face regularly with warm water. Use a mild soap that is gentle and moisturises the skin. You can contact your paediatrician for the correct recommendation. 2} Do not use lotion: While the baby is suffering from acne, avoid using creams and lotions as they can make the acne worse. 3} Do not scrub: Do not scrub the skin while washing and wiping. Instead use a soapy or rubber washcloth in circular motions. Use a cotton towel to pat dry. 4} Do not squeeze acne: It is common to touch acne affected areas. However, do not pinch or squeeze the acne as it will irritate the skin and make acne worse. 5} Have patience: Baby acne is harmless and disappears on its own.
Though it can be alarming to the eyes, have patience. It will resolve its period of time. A general check up with the pediatrician is the perfect time to enquire about baby acne and ways to treat it. If your baby has acne and you are too worried about it, consult your pediatrician for help. He will advise you the best way to go about it.