Baby Acne - Acne Neonatorum  

A baby’s skin is the most delicate, soft and smoothest skin there is. Their flawless complexion is not always the case with some babies that suffer skin problems. These infant skin disorders can happen for a number of reasons. However, for the mother who sees her infants tarnished skin, it can be a guilt ridden and upsetting time as she begins to question what may have caused it. Many mothers blame themselves for their newborns acne. But baby acne usually appears within the first three months of birth and is caused by a number of things. But new moms should rest assured that the baby acne also known as acne neonatorum is a common occurrence in babies.

Yes we all know that as a mother you want to protect your baby from anything that may harm them. However, for a baby they don’t even realize they have baby acne. They are as happy as can be. It’s the parents that are more affected as they question why their precious bundle of joy had to get this unsightly skin disorder. Of course, every parent wants their baby to maintain the perfect skin they had the day of their arrival.

So, what is this “baby acne” or “acne neonatorum” as it is often referred to as? 

Well, this type of acne is usually found on your baby’s facial area. It usually appears as red colored blemishes or lesions on the cheeks. In some cases, the acne may cause blackheads, papules, or pustules to form on your baby’s skin. Although extremely disappointing to you as a parent, there really is no need to worry. Thankfully most baby acne conditions completely disappear within months with no sign that it was even there. This usually happens within an infant’s first six months.

What causes baby acne or neonatorum acne?  

A hormonal imbalance is the primary culprit. While you are pregnant, your baby is exposed to higher levels of hormones. After birth, your baby’s body must adjust to the new change in hormonal levels while also learning to maintain a healthy hormonal balance. This new adjustment can result in baby acne.

Unlike other types of acne, thankfully acne neonatorum does not cause scarring. Once the outbreaks have ceased, your baby’s skin will appear as though it never even experienced this “ugly” condition. It is simply a phase that your baby goes through. Soon they’ll have porcelain-looking skin again with no signs that any blemishes were even there.

Who is more prone to baby acne – boys or girls? 

Scientific studies have shown that male babies are more prone to acne than females. Why is this you ask? Well, after birth your son will have much lower levels of the estrogen hormone in his system. As his tiny body begins to adjust to his new hormone levels, it is not unusual for his baby acne to disappear and then reappear a few weeks later. But rest assured, his baby acne will be completely gone in the coming months.

As a parent you want to make sure your child gets the best care, so what can you do? Well, first off stay calm as this condition is very common in infants. If you talk to any parent they will assure you that it’s simply a phase that will pass so don’t worry. Actually, nearly 1 out of every 5 babies will experience some form of baby acne during their infant years.

Whatever you do never apply lotions or oils to your baby’s face as this will only cause more outbreaks. Instead use a very mild soap and warm water to cleanse your baby. In my case I actually used a rinse of apple cider vinegar and water. I simply used about 2 table spoons of vinegar to 2 cups of water and within a day noticed a big improvement in my son’s skin. However, before you start diagnosing your baby’s condition it’s best to talk to your doctor first to see what treatment is best for your child.

Baby acne is so common that most doctors will simply recommend a product. But in extreme or severe cases, your doctor may prescribe something like benzoyl peroxide or some type of retinoid cream to help ease the symptoms. With these types of creams peeling may occur. However, prescription medications or ointments should be a last resort for treatment. Although they may be effective, they are quite powerful. Remember to always consult your doctor first.    Many doctors will often recommend an anti-itch cream like hydrocortisone. This cream is also quite powerful so use it sparingly.

Remember, over time the baby acne will disappear. You simply need some time and patience. Although hard to believe, there really is no need to worry. This is a common condition that will pass.

Baby acne usually disappears on its own. It is a natural result of hormonal changes. So, as your baby ages and his or her hormonal levels become more balanced the acne will disappear for good. Once you see your baby’s perfect skin reappear again, the baby acne and those noticeable red blemishes will be a thing of the past. You’d never even know your cute little bundle had baby acne. Grin and bear it as they say. It’ll be gone in no time.