Information about Baby Acne

The birth of a new child, a baby, is one of the most precious gifts that a woman or family can experience. Mothers spend hours doting over their new born child observing every physical and behavioral characteristic. It is not unusual for mothers to notice that at around 4 weeks of age, their baby breaks out in little red pimples. This usually comes as a complete surprise to the mother. This condition is known as Baby Acne. At times it can be confusing because the pimples can appear strongly at times and then seem to disappear at other times.

Baby acne, as with all medical conditions, has some common symptoms. Usually the acne first appears to be a rash with small pimples that are red in appearance. Sometimes, whiteheads can actually be seen. The pimples will tend to show up more when the baby is upset or overheated and at times they may even seem as though they are not there at all. Baby cane will clear up with time and are not something that young mothers should be overly concerned about.

Baby Acne can be seen in newborns usually between the ages of 4 weeks of age and six months of age. Not all babies get it but a large number do. Baby acne usually appears on the baby’s cheeks and on other areas of the face. Doctors say that baby acne happens as a direct result of the mother’s hormone levels when she is giving birth. During childbirth and for a short period of time before, the mother’s hormones are allowed to pass through the placenta to the baby. This is important because it stimulates vital, last-minute physical development in the baby’s body. This is the development of vital organs such as increasing the size of the lungs in order to prepare them for breathing air. These hormones that are so important at this stage of childbirth also stimulate oil production in the baby’s skin. These increased levels of oil in the baby’s skin are what causes baby acne.

Although the appearance of baby acne is troubling to mothers, it is a very common condition that affects a large number of babies. Furthermore, it is harmless and usually takes care of itself within a short period of time. Doctors generally recommend that parents gently wash their baby’s face daily with water or at times a mild, baby soap to help clear things up. Although the appearance of acne on your baby may bother you as the parent, it will not harm your baby in any way and it will soon clear up. If baby acne does become severe or it lasts for more than six months, you should consult a pediatrician. The pediatrician will assess the severity of your baby’s acne and offer a gentle medication to assist with healing or they will recommend that you allow it to run its course.