Baby acne

Overview

Baby acne, also known as newborn acne, neonatal acne, or neonatal cephalic pustulosis, is a benign skin condition commonly observed on a baby’s face and neck within the initial weeks of life. The symptoms often include small pimples, bumps, or pustules on the baby’s skin, resembling adult acne. Fortunately, this transient issue typically resolves itself without the need for treatment, and it tends to clear up within a few days to a couple of weeks, leaving no lasting scars. As a parent, there is little you can do to prevent baby acne, but rest assured that it is harmless and requires no intervention as it will naturally fade away over time.

Symptoms

Baby acne may appear either at birth or before your baby reaches 2 months of age. It often resembles mild acne seen in adolescents or adults and is characterized by small, swollen bumps (papules) in red to purple hues or pus-filled bumps surrounded by a red to purple or dark brown ring (pustules). This condition is commonly found on the baby’s face, neck, chest, and back.

Parents are advised to seek guidance from a healthcare provider if they have any concerns or worries about their child’s skin during this time. Consulting with a professional can provide reassurance and appropriate recommendations for managing baby acne.

Causes

Baby acne occurs when the pores of a newborn’s skin become blocked, leading to the development of pimples. Hormonal changes during birth or the early weeks of life are believed to contribute to this condition as the hormones from the placenta can affect the production of sebum, an oily substance that can clog the pores.

Babies’ skin can be sensitive and prone to negative reactions if anything is left on it for extended periods, particularly if there are traces of food, vomit, or drool residue. Therefore, it’s essential to promptly clean and care for their skin to avoid any potential discomfort or irritation.