The baby acne is skin ailment that many parents tend to see in baby few days after birth. Well it can seem like it is dangerous, but it is not and can often clear up without intervention. As parents we do get these worries and that is why at Very Well Health we’ve compiled a list of information that will guide you through all the necessary care about baby acne as advised by experts.
What is Baby Acne?
Baby acne or neonatal acne are red or white little pimple-like lesions commonly on a baby’s face. It is normally due to maternal hormones still circulating in the baby’s organism which cause skin irritation. While baby acne is harmless to the baby, learning about how to manage it is important since it can impact on baby’s comfort and skin.
How to Handle Baby Acne
Keep It Clean
Bath your baby’s face with warm water at least one time a day. You should not use any forms of soap or chemicals that are so abrasive. Just warm water and a gentle natural fiber towel are often sufficient. Do not use a loofah, washcloth or any other scrubbing material; rubbing can make skin worse.
Avoid Over-the-Counter Creams
Most creams and ointments should not be used for babies and might actually cause baby acne to worsen. Do not use products meant for adult acne and see your pediatrician before using any product.
Resist Touching or Squeezing
Babies acne actually may appear as tiny pimple like formations, but it is recommended not to try to pop the zits. This may in turn cause skin irritation and hence leading to skin infections.
Use Mild, Unscented Products
Make certain that any product that touches your skin—from baby wipes and laundry detergent to soaps of other household cleaners- is non-irritating and hypoallergenic, meaning, free of perfumes and dyes. Essential detergents and perfumes are likely to be harsh on the baby skin hence worsen the acne.
Keep Your Baby Comfortable
This is particularly important if your baby is in a crib, since overheating increases sweating and therefore worsens the babies acne. Loose, light colored clothing can help a baby from overheating and give the baby’s skin a sense of peacefulness.
What Causes Baby Acne?
Unlike teenage acne, baby acne has its roots and therefore is not something which should be treated as general acne. The main reason is believed to be the maternal hormones that are believed to still be in circulation in a baby’s body. These hormones pave the way for the secretion of oil on the baby’s skin resulting to tiny pimple and rashes. While teenage acne is caused by blockage of skin pores, baby acne, therefore, is caused by normal skin changes.
How Long Does Baby Acne Last?
In many cases, It usually disappears on its own within 2 or three weeks. In some babies, it may take several months to resolve, and in some other babies it remains complete. It tends to disappear naturally once the baby grows up and it doesn’t cause any scarring as many people believe.
When to consult your pediatrician
While it is usually harmless, you may want to consult a doctor if:
The acne lasts longer than a few months.
It spreads beyond the face.
Oh it looks like it has been attacked by a bug or it seems painful Swallowed like the skin is inflamed or infected.
Parents should consult their pediatricians, if they think treatment is needed, but generally, a doctor will advise no intervention.
Much of the advice to parents is about Baby Acne care or precautions to take when your baby has it.
Do avoid just leaving the skin in its natural state, flat and without any make-up.
Also use only mild and fragrance-free personal care products.
Do not apply acne treatment for adults or use scrubs.
Avoid the temptation to burst the pimples or squeeze it.
Is baby acne dangerous in the long run?
Generally, toddler acne does not have life altering consequences. Once this clears, then your baby’s skin should go back to being soft and clear as it was before. The key point here is to avoid certain kinds of treatment that worsen the skin condition.
In this particular article from Very Well Health, the main message is stress on the fact that basic care and waiting are the answers. This is especially for parents who find it irritating to have babies acne, but the situation will decrease as days go by with a tender handling.
FAQ’s
What is baby acne, and how does it occur?
Mild, usually tiny bumps that can be present on a baby’s face from birth are called babies acne and they are most probably attributed by the remaining hormones from the birth mother.
What precaution should I take to treat my baby’s acne?
Do not wash the skin with soap and discourage all treatments commonly associated with adult acne.
Will baby acne leave scars?
No usually does not remain as after the baby has been born, the babies acne does not leave scars on the skin.
Can over-the-counter creams for baby acne be used?
In this case it is advisable to refrain from the use of creams which can be purchased at the local store without a prescription from a pediatrician.
When does baby acne appear and when does it fade away?
Newborn skin problems such as babies acne usually resolve themselves within several weeks but may take longer.
Conclusion
In itself, baby acne is not a serious condition, and does not necessarily need treatment. This phase is normal, but you should avoid using products that irritate the baby’s skin or baby’s skin rash that requires the opinion of the doctor. That’s why at VeryWellHealth we stand ready to offer information and tips for every health issue. Do not worry, It is normal and will even go away soon leaving behind the soft skin of your loving baby.
