Babies are extremely cute and cuddly, and no parent would be welcoming to any blemish on her baby’s face! While rashes on baby’s face are largely common, facial blemishes that appear more like pimples may actually be baby acne. This condition is also quite common, and may be present at birth, although it often shows up after a few weeks. Typically, it looks similar to teenage acne, with red or white bumps or pimples that may have reddish skin surrounding them.
Of course, not all blemishes may be classified at acne, as sometimes, these white bumps that are on baby’s face at birth and go away on their own within several weeks are more likely what doctors call milia. Alternatively, irritations that look more scaly and rashy instead of pimply, and show up elsewhere on the baby’s body, are likely eczema or cradle cap.
Acne typically comes out on the cheeks and perhaps on the chin, the forehead, or even the baby’s back. Generally, it tends to become more pronounced whenever the baby gets fussy or hot, or if spit-up milk, saliva, or a relatively rough fabric irritates his skin. Sometimes, fabric that has been washed in a relatively strong detergent also serves to be an irritant.
What causes baby acne? Unfortunately, as is the case with acne among teenagers, there is no clear cause. Experts believe hormones that a baby gets from his mother towards the last trimester of pregnancy could be part of the culprit, although they have yet to conclude on one specific cause. If the mother happens to be under medication while breastfeeding her baby, or if the baby himself is under medication, chemicals in the medicine might contribute to the possibility of baby acne developing. Sometimes, it may also only be a reaction to certain skincare products, especially an oily lotion or cream that can block skin pores.
How long does baby acne last? Usually, it clears up within several weeks, although some cases last for months. The general rule is that if the condition does not seem to clear up by three months, or if you happen to be concerned about it, feel free to approach your pediatrician. Doctors may prescribe a topical medication with mildness suitable for a baby to treat severe or long-lasting acne. On a side note, experts also clue mothers in on the possibility of the child being more prone to deal with acne when he grows up to be a teenager.
If you are worried about acne on your baby’s skin, the following skin care dos and dont's should help you care for your baby’s complexion:
1. Don’t use acne medicine, even over-the-counter ones. If anything on your baby’s skin is causing your worry, be sure to bring it up with your pediatrician. Babies are generally more sensitive to medication, and you would not want to overdo or give him something that will not be beneficial for him in the long run.
2. Avoid scrubbing. Take note that baby acne does not come about by dirt or dust. The truth is, too much washing tends to irritate a baby’s skin, so be sure not to overdo the daily cleaning process.
3. Avoid putting oily lotions on the baby’s skin. Oily lotions especially can worsen acne situations. Some parents of babies who suffered from acne have reported good results from shifting to non-oily creams. If you intend to try new brands, be sure to check how it affects the baby’s skin, and be quick to stop at the first sign of a worsening complexion.
4. Do make sure you wash your baby’s face using water and mild baby soap only once a day, and pat it dry gently.
5. Do hold on to your patience. Acne will not disappear overnight, and if it does not seem to bother your baby in the least, there is no use stressing or fussing over it yourself.
In any case, if your baby is suffering from acne, do try the tips above to avoid further irritating his skin, especially on sensitive areas like the face. If it still does not clear up in a few months, have the liberty to bring it up with your doctor.
