Infant Acne

Acne is thought of as a skin disorder that mainly affects teenagers and young adults. However, adults as old a 65 have reported acne breakouts and children as young as one day old can also develop acne. This article focuses on infant acne and provides ways to gently treat delicate baby skin.

Causes of Infant Acne

Infant acne is very common. Babies may be born with acne or develop acne within 2 to 4 weeks of birth. This type of acne usually occurs on the chin and cheeks but may also appear on the baby's forehead or back. Infant acne may present as red pimples or as whiteheads and is usually surrounded by reddish skin, or skin that appears flushed or irritated. Infant acne should not be confused with other common infant skin conditions such as milia or eczema. The acne will appear more severe when babies are hot, fussy, or when in contact with breast milk. Though wiping the face may make the condition seem worse, it normally resolves itself without medical treatment.

Causes of infant acne include everything from the mother's hormones prior to giving birth, medications taken by the mother or the baby before or shortly after birth, and allergies to formula or breast milk. Though it can last from weeks to months, the condition does not cause babies any discomfort. A dermatologist should be consulted if the acne grows worse, is uncomfortable to the infant, or lasts over three to six months with no resolution. Parents should not overly concern themselves with their baby's appearance as acne does not harm the baby though it may be a temporary imperfection.

Treatment of Infant Acne

Infant acne usually resolves itself within 4 to 6 months after birth. Some things that may exacerbate the condition include oils, rubbing the skin, or excessive cleansing. Infant acne is not caused by dirt, and over-washing the skin will only irritate the skin-and the infant. Washing the face with water or a mild cleanser once daily will keep the skin clean without causing irritation. Moisturizing the skin, particularly with lotions containing oil will cause more acne, so this should be avoided. Babies should be checked for skin or food allergies if acne worsens over time. A child dermatologist or pediatrician should be consulted if the acne does not resolve or if the infant has other ailments such as fever, excessive fussiness, or if acne contains pus or lesions. Acne treatment products for teenagers and adults should never be used to treat infant acne.