Almost 20 percent of all newborn babies will develop a skin
condition known as baby acne that will appear roughly two weeks after
birth. These small, red bumps that look like pimples are also called
acne neonatorum. They most often disappear spontaneously by the time
the baby is three months old.
There is often no need for the
application of any baby acne products since the condition disappears on
its own in most cases. In the event treatment is desired, consult the
baby’s pediatrician and use only the mildest possible remedies. The
newborn baby’s skin is much too sensitive to use the harsher acne
treatments used by teenagers and adults.
Lingering hormones
from the baby’s mother are the triggering agent in baby acne. These
maternal hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands in the baby, which
will help keep the baby’s skin baby soft but little bumps that look
like pimples are likely to form as the baby adjusts to his or her new
life.
Recent studies have indicated that the bumps are caused
by a strain of yeast in the Malassezia species. One form of this strain
of yeast causes a condition commonly called cradle-cap in newborns.
This condition produces bumps along the baby’s hairline.
If
the presence of the bumps along the hairline or on the face seems to be
making your baby uncomfortable, it might be wise to consult the baby’s
pediatrician. He or she may prescribe a very low-dose antifungal cream
or ointment that can be safely used to speed up healing of the bumps.
Whether
you choose to treat your baby’s acne with a baby acne product or simply
let nature run its course, never use harsh chemicals or cleansers on
the baby’s skin. Never pick or scratch it and keep the area as clean as
possible to avoid any potential for infection.
Med-Help is for informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations.