When you’re a new parent, it feels like alarms are constantly going off in your head. Is your baby eating enough? Sleeping enough? Is that rash normal, or is it something to worry about? One common concern parents might have is baby acne. It can be alarming to see little pimples on your baby’s face, but rest assured, it’s a common skin condition in infants. Here’s what you need to know about baby acne, including why babies get it, what it looks like, and how to treat it.
Types of Baby Acne
There are two main types of baby acne: neonatal cephalic pustulosis (or neonatal acne) and infantile acne.
- Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis (Neonatal Acne): This type of baby acne is characterized by superficial pus-filled bumps on the baby’s face, scalp, and occasionally the chest and back. It typically appears within the first few weeks of a baby’s life.
- Infantile Acne: Infantile acne resembles the acne that teenagers and young adults get. It is restricted to the face and usually develops a little later than neonatal acne.
What Does Baby Acne Look Like?
Baby acne on the face resembles typical acne that teenagers and adults experience. Neonatal acne presents as tiny pustules or small whitehead pimples surrounded by redness and inflammation. In contrast, infantile acne can involve closed or open pimples, whiteheads or blackheads, and can range from mild to severe.
What Causes Baby Acne?
Baby acne can have various causes, including hormonal factors and bacteria on the skin.
- Hormonal Factors: Neonatal acne may result from maternal hormones transmitted to the baby before birth or through breast milk. These hormones can stimulate the baby’s glands, leading to acne.
- Bacterial Overgrowth: Some cases of neonatal acne may be associated with an overgrowth of yeast species on the skin, especially if it coincides with cradle cap.
How to Treat Baby Acne
In most cases, medical experts recommend leaving baby acne alone, as it typically clears up on its own within a few weeks. Here are some guidelines:
- Do Nothing: For infantile acne, it’s often best to do nothing and let it resolve naturally. A mild daily cleansing with hypoallergenic soap and water is typically all that’s needed.
- Medication: In rare cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications for baby acne, especially if it’s associated with other conditions. However, this should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Does Breast Milk Help with Baby Acne?
While there isn’t strong scientific evidence to support the use of breast milk for baby acne, it’s generally safe to try. Breast milk contains antimicrobial and antibacterial compounds that may help reduce inflammation associated with baby acne. Additionally, breast milk contains probiotics that can support the skin’s microbiome and aid in healing. However, if you don’t have access to breast milk, don’t worry, as baby acne often resolves on its own.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
If you have concerns or questions about your baby’s skin, it’s a good idea to contact a healthcare provider. While baby acne is usually harmless, it’s essential to rule out other conditions or infections, especially if the rash transforms into something different from individual pimples. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to your baby’s health and well-being.