Introduction:
Acne is a clinical condition characterized by red or white bumps or pimples on the skin. In other words, it can be called inflamed pimples. Baby acne is a commonly occurring lesion developing on the face or body of the baby and is a temporary condition. It causes small red or white bumps or pimples. Most of the cases recover on their own without any specific treatment. It is also called neonatal acne, and the prevalence is about 20 percent of newborns.
There is a difference between baby acne and infantile acne. Infantile acne consists of open comedones or blackheads, which is usually not seen in baby acne. There can be the presence of cysts or nodules also. There can be the presence of scars in rare cases. Another difference is that baby acne occurs in the first few months of the life of the baby, whereas infantile acne can be there until two years of age of the child. Infantile acne's frequency is less common than baby acne.
How Is It Caused?
The cause has not yet been confirmed, but studies and research show that it can be related to maternal or infant hormones.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms?
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The appearance of baby acne is similar to adolescent or adult acne; that is, it is commonly seen as red bumps or pimples. There can be white pustules or whiteheads along with reddish skin around the pimples.
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The site involved can be anywhere on the face, but the frequency is more on the cheeks. Sometimes, the upper back or neck may be involved in the babies.
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If the baby is crying or irritated, it may be more prominent, and even rough fabrics can aggravate the acne.
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There can be an occasional occurrence of these acnes at birth, but most commonly, this develops within two to four weeks post-birth. Most cases recover within a few weeks, but sometimes it may last up to a few months.
Are There Any Conditions Resembling Baby Acne?
Sometimes, baby acne can be misdiagnosed as:
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Eczema - Eczema is characterized as red bumps on the face and can occur on the knees and elbows as the baby ages. Eczema can get infected and have a yellowish and crusty appearance. It worsens as the age increases. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type.
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Erythema Toxicum - Erythema toxicum is clinically characterized as a rash, with small bumps. It can appear on the face, chest, or hands of the baby.
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Milia - Milia is clinically characterized as white bumps developing on the face of the baby.
There are some other skin rashes and other skin conditions seen in newborn babies, which are:
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Baby Heat Rash - These are clinically characterized as clusters of small, moist, and red bumps that are similar to acne and are often seen on arms, legs, upper chest, and diaper area in the baby along with the face and happen due to heat outside.
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Diaper Rash - This rash is caused due to moisture, irritants, and very little air and clinically presents as red, irritated skin in the diaper area of the baby.
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Cradle Cap - It is also called seborrheic dermatitis, which looks like small red bumps that are smaller than acne and can have yellow, flaky skin looking like scales.
What Are the Various Phases of Baby Acne?
Acne in babies can develop gradually or occur unexpectedly. Before becoming elevated pimples, pimples on their skin may first appear as tiny, discolored spots. The size of the pimples decreases along with their irritation. The zits are transient and often disappear in some days to a few weeks. The baby will have flawless skin after the zits disappear.
Can a Kiss Give a Baby Acne?
Giving the baby a lot of kisses on their cheeks is unlikely to make them develop acne. Hormonal fluctuations that lead to a temporary clogging of the pores are frequently the cause of baby acne.
When to Consult the Doctor?
One should consult a doctor for the following conditions:
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If the acne of the baby progresses or develops into blackheads, pus-filled bumps, or gets infected or inflamed.
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If the child has pain or discomfort.
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If the acne of the baby does not get cured even after several months of home treatment.
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Recurrence of the pimples, particularly before puberty, maybe a sign of an underlying illness.
How Can It Be Diagnosed?
When one sees such rashes or pimples on the body of the baby, consult a pediatrician or physician. A physical examination will be done, and diagnosis will be made, and the treatment is suggested and done. It does not require any other specific testing.
How Can Baby Acne Be Treated?
Mostly, this condition heals on its own at a specific time. Some babies may have lesions that stay for a long time, and this can be treated using a medicated cream or ointment, which the pediatrician will prescribe. It is advisable not to use any over-the-counter creams, face washes, etc., as they can irritate the sensitive skin of the baby and may worsen the condition.
Can Baby Acne Be Treated at Home?
Some home remedies may help in managing the baby's acne along with the pediatrician's prescription.
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Keeping the face and body of the baby clean by the usage of warm water, mild soaps, and no or very less chemical-containing products.
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Avoid products that can be harsh to the baby's skin, like retinoids-containing products.
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Avoid using any scented soap, bubble baths, etc.
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Avoid using lotions and cream on the baby as it may irritate the skin of the baby.
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Scrubbing the baby's skin with a towel can aggravate the acne. Hence, avoid it.
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Avoid pinching or squeezing the acne on the baby's body.
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After eating, wipe off any food that remains on the baby's face.
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Avoid using oily skincare products on the baby's skin.
What Are Some Underlying Circumstances to Be Aware Of?
The reason why home remedies for acne are unsuccessful could be related to a few uncommon problems. These ailments include endocrine system-related disorders and malignancies.
Consult a physician to look for underlying problems if the baby girl begins exhibiting hyperandrogenism. An excessive amount of facial hair or abnormally greasy skin are possible symptoms.
Conclusion:
Baby acne is a temporary condition involving the skin of the baby and recovers mostly by itself. But sometimes, it may be indicative of an underlying condition. Hence, it is advisable to consult a physician or a pediatrician to get more details about it and have an early diagnosis and treatment. Online medical platforms aid in such consultations at the ease of one’s home. Hence, consult a specialist to know more about baby acne.
