What is Baby Acne?
Baby acne is a common skin condition that affects newborn babies and typically clears up on its own after a few weeks. It is caused when hormones passed on by the mother during pregnancy cause the baby’s oil glands to produce more oil. It usually appears as red bumps on the cheeks, forehead, and nose, but can also occur on the chest and back.
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Symptoms of Baby Acne
Baby acne can look different from baby to baby, and the symptoms largely depend on the severity of the condition. Symptoms include:
- Red, spotty patches on the face and body
- Whiteheads
- Bumps or pimples
Baby acne is most common on the cheeks, forehead, and chin but can also spread to the chest, back and other areas.
Causes of Baby Acne
Baby acne is triggered by hormones that are passed on from the mother during pregnancy, causing the baby’s oil glands to produce more oil. This oil is known as sebum, and it can cause the skin to become irritated and bumpy.
Another contributing factor is blocked pores, which can lead to inflammation and blemishes.
Treatment of Baby Acne
Although it is not necessary to treat baby acne, as it will usually clear up on its own, there are some steps that can be taken to help manage and reduce the symptoms. These include:
- Gently cleaning baby’s skin: Gently washing and cleaning baby’s skin with baby-safe soap and warm water can help reduce the symptoms.
- Avoiding irritants: Avoiding chemicals and other irritants is key, as these may worsen the symptoms.
- Using natural remedies: Natural remedies such as honey, aloe vera, and coconut oil can help to soothe the skin and reduce redness.
When to See a Doctor
Although baby acne usually clears up on its own, there are some cases where a doctor should be consulted. These include:
- If the symptoms do not improve or worsen after two weeks.
- If the rash is accompanied by a fever.
- If the rash is painful or if it bleeds.
- If the rash is accompanied by a sore throat or other symptoms.
Keywords: Baby Acne, Baby Acne Symptoms, Baby Acne Causes, Baby Acne Treatment, Baby Acne Doctor
