Baby acne is the presence of small red bumps and pimples sometimes found in infants from 3 to 4 weeks of age. The pimples can be found throughout the baby’s face but they are usually concentrated on the cheeks, chin and forehead.


Baby acne is most likely caused by the crossing of the mother’s hormones through the placenta during pregnancy. These hormones, which also serve other important purposes- such as aiding in lung maturation-, stimulate you child’s oil glands. In a susceptible child, this oil production will give rise to baby acne. However, researchers are still investigating other possible causes of this condition. If you are taking certain medications while nursing this may also trigger baby acne and you should consult your doctor about this possibility.


The good news is, the condition will clear up by the time the child is 4 to 6 months old, and will not return until your child is a teenager. During this time period, the acne will usually come and go. It is important not to treat you baby’s skin with harsh medications, oils or lotions. Your child’s skin is very sensitive and should be washed only once a day with a mild baby soap.


If the condition is very severe, or if it lasts beyond 6 months of age, you should consult a doctor. She can prescribe a mild medication that will help.


You may also want to check with your doctor to be sure that your child has baby acne and not an allergic reaction or eczema.


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