What is Baby Acne?
You’ve noticed tiny red or white bumps on your baby's sweet face and wonder how it could have occurred. After all, you try to use non-toxic baby products and fabrics that are less likely to irritate his or her skin. Your baby may be experiencing baby or neonatal acne, which affects 20% of babies. Yes, babies can experience acne, too! Good news: baby acne is temporary and often clears up on its own by three to four months. Not only that, your baby’s skin is unlikely to experience any long-term effects, like scarring.
How do I know that my baby has acne and not another skin condition?
Your pediatrician will confirm if your baby has baby acne or another skin condition.
Baby acne is characterized by tiny red or white bumps on your baby’s face that typically goes away without treatment. While other skin conditions are also characterized by similar bumps., they may not go away without treatment. Eczema can appear as red bumps on the face, arms, and legs. Eczema on the baby’s arms and legs can get worse as your baby becomes mobile . Eczema can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) products, like Eucerin or Aquaphor, both of which keeps your baby’s sensitive skin in mind. In some cases, your pediatrician may suggest prescription medication, like mild corticosteroids, to treat eczema as well.
Another skin condition that may be confused with baby acne is erythema toxicum. This common skin condition can also appear as tiny fluid-filled bumps on your baby’s face, chest, and limbs after birth. This condition is harmless and disappears fairly quickly after birth.
Finally, baby acne can also be confused as milia, tiny white bumps that appear on the baby’s face.Milia may also appear in your baby’s mouth and gums. Like baby acne, it typically resolves on its own and does not require over-the-counter or prescription treatment.
What can I do to prevent baby acne?
At this time, research has indicated little can be done to prevent baby acne. Baby acne will clear up on its own. In other cases, if your pediatrician suspects that an allergy, like to a lotion, has caused the acne or anther skin condition, they will instruct you to refrain from exposing your baby to that allergen.
How can I treat baby acne?
Some mothers have reported that treating baby acne with breastmilk has been successful. You can either apply breastmilk directly to the baby’s skin with clean fingers or gently apply the breastmilk to the baby’s skin with a cotton ball or pad. If you are concerned that the acne or any other skin condition is worsening, be sure to talk to your pediatrician about what’s happening and if another treatment will be effective.
How can I prevent my baby’s acne from worsening?
Fragrance-free and Mild Cleansers
Stick to fragrance-free and mild cleansers specifically crafted for babies and their sensitive skin. Your pediatrician may have recommendations for cleansers that will have minimal impact to your baby’s skin. Refrain from using products intended to treat adult acne - their chemicals are too harsh for your baby’s skin It’s tempting, but leave the scented lotions and creams on the shelves. They may make the acne worse.
Gentle Washcloths
Be gentle when touching your baby’s skin - use a clean and soft washcloth when giving your baby a bath. Don’t rub your baby’s skin when drying. Instead, pat the skin dry gently.
Cover Hands with Mittens or Socks
If your baby is prone to touching or scratching their face, try to cover their hands with breathable, cotton mittens or cotton socks.
It’s been a few months and my baby still has acne. I thought the condition would get better. What should I do?
Talk to your pediatrician about your options. They may prescribe a medicated cream or ointment. Since your baby’s skin is still so sensitive, try to stay away from over-the-counter face washes, creams, or lotions in an attempt to resolve the problem. Some of these products are more appropriate for adult acne and not your baby’s sensitive skin.
I know baby acne is harmless, but I am still concerned. When should I consult with my pediatrician?
If your baby develops any skin condition, no matter how minor, consult your pediatrician. You can either mention your concerns during a general appointment or schedule a visit to specifically discuss this issue. If for some reason, your baby’s skin becomes inflamed and/or you worry your baby is in pain, visit your doctor as soon as possible. For rare cases and if your pediatrician is concerned that the acne is caused by a medical condition, your pediatrician may recommend using 2.5% benzoyl peroxide lotion. Generally, babies do not have an adverse reaction to the lotion, though their skin may become dry.
Other treatments may require antibiotics and antifungals.
Bottom Line
Breathe. While it can be concerning to see your sweet baby’s face with acne, try not to worry. You may think your baby is uncomfortable because of the acne, but they are generally fine. If you have any concerns about your baby’s skin or skin conditions worsen, reach out to your pediatrician.
Disclaimer: I do not offer medical advice, services, or treatments. If you have specific medical questions regarding your pregnancy, please reach out to your doctor or midwife.