A baby’s skin is delicate, soft, and beautiful. However, it’s not uncommon to notice small bumps appearing on your baby’s cheeks, nose, and forehead. This can be alarming for parents because these may be the signs of baby acne.
Baby acne is a prevalent and short-lived skin condition seen in almost 20% of newborns (American Academy of Dermatology, AAD). Typically, it resolves by itself within a few weeks or months and does not cause discomfort for your baby.
Understanding the causes, what to do about baby acne, possible treatments, and baby acne self-care tips can help you confidently treat your baby's skin issue. In this article, you will find simple self-care remedies and when to seek medical assistance. Let’s dive in!
What Is Baby Acne?
Baby acne, also known as neonatal acne, is a temporary skin condition that appears as small red or white bumps, usually on the face. It primarily affects newborns within the first few weeks of life, and some infants are even born with it.
The condition is not harmful and typically resolves itself without leaving scars or causing long-term effects.
Neonatal Acne vs. Infantile Acne
Not all baby acne is the same. It is important to distinguish between neonatal acne and infantile acne:
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Neonatal Acne |
Infantile Acne |
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It appears within the first 2 to 4 weeks after birth and typically clears up by 3 months of age. It does not involve blackheads or deep cysts. |
This type of acne develops between 3 months to 1 year of age. It can include blackheads, pustules, or nodules. It may require medical attention. In rare cases, it can cause scarring if left untreated. |
Is Baby Acne the Same as Infantile Acne?
Baby acne is sometimes confused with infantile acne, but they are distinct conditions. Baby acne is a condition that occurs a few days to weeks after birth. This is a mild form of acne that occurs when maternal hormones pass into the baby's bloodstream during pregnancy. Babies typically recover within a few days without requiring medical treatment.
On the other hand, infantile acne is a condition observed in babies from 3 months to one year after birth. This is not a temporary condition and may include blackheads, pustules, or even cysts. Babies who have infantile acne sometimes need medical treatment. Understanding both types is essential to know how to heal baby acne.
Where Do Symptoms of Baby Acne Appear?
Mostly, babies' acne appears on the face due to excessive sebum production. However, it may also spread to other parts of the body. Those body parts that can have acne include:
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Cheeks – The cheeks are often the first place where you will notice baby acne. The oil glands in this area are still developing, making it more prone to breakouts.
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Nose – Acne can also appear on your baby’s nose, as this area tends to produce more oil.
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Forehead – The forehead is another common spot for baby acne to appear. It is generally a result of clogged pores or hormonal influences.
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Chin – Baby acne can also affect the chin, often seen as small red or white bumps.
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Scalp – The scalp, particularly the area near the hairline, may show signs of baby acne, especially if the skin is irritated or oily.
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Neck – While less common, baby acne can appear on the neck, particularly if the skin becomes sweaty or irritated from clothing.
Does Breastfeeding Cause Baby Acne?
There is a misconception that breastfeeding can be a reason for acne. But this is not a fact. Breastfeeding is not associated with any type of acne. However, sometimes babies can have acne due to hormonal transfer during feeding.
Another thing that can irritate is the hygiene concerns. Mothers should take care of their hygiene because it can cause acne or other health problems in the baby.
Do Kisses Cause Baby Acne?
Excessive kissing is unlikely to cause acne on a baby’s face. However, the harsh chemicals present on your face may shift to your baby's face and cause acne. Moreover, you can also shift bacteria, yeast, or other acne-causing agents from your skin to your baby's face while kissing. Therefore, wash your hands and face before touching or kissing your baby.
Why Does Baby Acne Happen?
Baby acne is not usually caused by dirt, poor hygiene, or allergies. Instead, it can be linked to the following natural bodily processes.
1. Maternal Hormones
Throughout pregnancy, hormones from the mother pass through the placenta and affect the baby’s oil glands. This continuous hormone supply may cause a temporary breakout of acne after birth.
2. Sensitivity to Yeast (Malassezia)
A natural yeast found on the skin can trigger mild inflammation, leading to acne-like eruptions.
3. Excess Sebum Production
A newborn’s oil glands are still developing, which can contribute to baby acne on cheeks and other areas of the face.
Sometimes, these glands generate excessive sebum, which can lead to clogged pores and mild acne.
4. Skin Irritants
Saliva, milk residue, or rough fabrics can sometimes be the basic cause behind the baby's acne or worsen it.
Always Keep in Mind These Baby Acne Self-Care Tips
1. Keep Your Baby’s Face Clean
Clean your baby’s face daily with lukewarm water and a gentle baby cleanser. This is one of the best approaches for what helps baby acne.Do not use baby products with strong fragrances or harsh chemicals.
2. Gently Pat the Skin Dry
Do not rub your baby’s skin with a dirty or harsh towel. Just pat their skin dry with a clean and soft towel.
3. Skip Lotions and Oily Products
Stop using creams, oils, and lotions that may block pores and cause or worsen acne. If your baby’s skin appears dry, consult your paediatrician for safe moisturising options.
4. Let It Heal Naturally
Avoid picking, popping, or scrubbing acne, which can cause irritation or infection. Allow the skin to breathe and heal on its own.
5. Choose Breathable Clothing
Clothe your baby in gentle, breathable cotton materials to avoid irritation. Avoid rough fabrics or tight-fitting clothing that may rub against the skin.
How to Medically Treat Baby Acne
Although baby acne is generally harmless, there are instances where medical treatment could be essential.
Medical Treatments for Baby Acne
In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend medical treatments for baby acne. These can include mild antifungal creams if a yeast overgrowth is suspected.
Low-dose topical steroids are also effective for redness and inflammation. However, in severe cases, you can use benzoyl peroxide (2.5%) under medical observation.
It is important to use these treatments only under medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.
When to See a Doctor
If your baby's acne persists beyond three months, appears inflamed with pus or widespread irritation, or spreads to areas beyond the face and chest, it is advisable to consult your paediatrician or a dermatologist.
Additionally, seeking medical attention is essential if your baby develops a fever, experiences excessive discomfort, or exhibits other unusual symptoms.
Final Words
In summary, baby acne is a frequent and short-lived issue that usually clears up with proper skincare. Simple home remedies, such as gentle cleansing and avoiding harsh products, are usually enough to help clear the skin.
The key to managing baby acne is patience and gentle care. However, seeking medical advice is essential if the acne persists beyond three months, becomes inflamed, or spreads beyond the face and chest.
In rare cases, a healthcare provider may recommend mild treatments, such as antifungal creams or topical medications (discussed above), to manage persistent breakouts.
FAQs
Does Breast Milk Help Clear Baby Acne?
Certain parents think using breast milk might be beneficial because of its antibacterial qualities. Although this remedy is commonly used at home, no scientific evidence supports its effectiveness. If you want to experiment with it, please consult your paediatrician first.
Will Baby Acne Leave Scars?
No, baby acne generally does not leave scars. However, if it is picked, scratched, or rubbed vigorously, it could lead to irritation or, in rare instances, minor scarring. To prevent this, avoid touching or squeezing the spots and follow gentle skincare routine practices.
Can excessively kissing a baby cause baby acne?
No, excessive kissing may not cause baby acne. However, frequent kissing can transfer bacteria, oils, or irritants to the baby’s skin, potentially causing minor irritation or exacerbating existing acne.
How Do You Clean Baby Acne?
Cleaning baby acne is a simple yet gentle process. Clean their face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. After cleansing, politely tap the face with a clean towel to dry it. Do not use products with harsh chemicals, as they can cause skin problems.
Is Baby Acne Due to Poor Hygiene?
Poor hygiene is not a reason behind baby acne. This may be due to hormonal transfer through the placenta, excess oil production, and sensitivity to yeast. Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene can help prevent yeast or bacterial growth, which can contribute to acne. However, hygiene itself is not a factor that causes acne.
How to Clean Baby Acne with Breast Milk?
Some parents use breastmilk as one of the home remedies for baby acne on face. In this remedy, they extract breast milk and apply it to the acne-prone part of the baby’s body. After a few minutes, clean it with lukewarm water and dry it by gently tapping with a clean towel. This is not a scientifically proven method, but it works fr various people. It is recommended to consult your doctor before trying natural remedies for baby acne.
What Increases Baby Acne?
Several factors play a significant role in the development of acne. These factors may include placental hormonal transfer, rough fabric, harsh chemical skincare products, or milk residue. You can prevent baby acne by taking care of hygiene and using soft and gentle products.
