Babies get acne at different ages.
Baby Acne Symptoms
Newbornbaby acnelooks similar to the acne you may have had during your teenage years.
Your baby might have:
On some babies, newborn acne looks like a rough, bumpy discolored rash.
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Newborn acne commonly appears on the:
It is most common on the cheeks and nose.
Baby acne may be present at birth or it may develop in the first few weeks of life.
It often starts out as a few discolored dots that turn into raised, discolored bumps over time.
Baby vs. Infantile Acne
Infantile acne typically appears between 3 and 6 months of age.
Infantile acne is also more likely to scar.
You should also see a healthcare provider if your baby has blackheads, whiteheads, or inflammation.
Causes
The direct cause of newborn baby acne is unknown.
When there is too much of this oily substance, it can clog pores.
Some research also suggests that an inflammatory reaction to skin colonization withMalasseziayeast can be the cause.
Rough fabrics or clothes laundered in harsh detergents can also aggravate delicate skin and make baby acne look worse.
Can kisses cause baby acne?
Kisses are unlikely to cause baby acne.
However, there are certain things that can irritate a baby’s skin if it touches them.
A few examples of these include milk, formula, spit-up, and some soaps and lotion.
However, baby acne should not be a reason to change the way you feed your baby.
If you’re concerned, talk to your healthcare provider.
Similar Conditions
Some conditions may resemble newborn baby acne.
It shows up when sweat ducts become blocked and inflamed and sweat gets trapped under the skin.
This typically happens when the baby is overdressed or exposed to hot weather.
Symptoms of heat rash include itchy, irritated, or discolored skin, in addition to small blisters.
Rashes can also be a result of other conditions like chickenpox,measles, andinsect bites.
They are also called milk bumps or milk cysts.
While milia may resemble whiteheads, they are not acne.
Newborns are prone to developing milia during their first few weeks of life, often on the nose.
Milia are completely harmless.
Just like with newborn baby acne, the vast majority of cases disappear without treatment.
The skin may also be dry, scaly, or itchy.
With a rash, bumps and blisters can also appear.
Erythema Toxicum
This is a skin condition that affects babies in the first few days of life.
It usually resolves on its own within a week.
What Helps Baby Acne Go Away?
Newborn acne doesn’t harm your baby at all and is purely a cosmetic issue.
If it bothers you, however, there are a few home remedies for baby acne on the face.
Summary
Baby acne is common in newborns and can even affect babies older than six weeks.
The best treatment for baby acne is often to leave it alone.
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