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Baby Acne

August 14, 2007

Baby acne can often come as a surprise to many parents, especially since most of us assume that acne is an affliction that usually only comes about during our teen years. However, baby acne is actually quite common, with nearly 30% of babies either developing a rash soon after birth or even being born with such a rash present. When it develops after birth, it typically starts around the three week point and can last until the child is 4 to 6 months old.

This skin condition is actually fairly common, caused in part by hormones that are passed to the baby via the placenta prior to birth. As with other forms of acne, overproduction of oil is the culprit here as well. Some studies indicate that the hormones passed to the child prior to birth cause the oil glands to be overstimulated, which leads to acne.

Common Symptoms

Baby acne can take the form of the traditional pimples that we've all grown to hate or, more commonly, can show up as a red rash. Whiteheads are also typical. And just like other forms of acne, it baby acne occurs mostly on the face but can show up elsewhere too, such as on the chest, neck or arms.

More Severe Cases

There are instances when a baby's acne might become more severe. This is especially true if the child is sick or if their skin is irritate due to some other cause. This is just another reason to be extra cautious with the detergents and cleaners you use when cleaning your baby's clothing or other items. Otherwise, they might irritate the skin and just make matters worse.

Preventing the Spread of Baby Acne

To keep the acne from spreading, it's a good practice to gently clean your baby's face with water, perhaps with a mild baby-friendly soap. Other than that, it usually goes away in due time (around 3 months or so). Keep that in mind before trying to use medications or other cures for your baby's acne and instead, simply allow nature to take it's course. If the symptoms don't get better within a reasonable timeframe, then a trip to the pediatrician or dermatologist would certainly be in order.

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