Your bundle of joy has arrived. A lovely, sweet baby who holds your finger with his little hand and makes contented little cooing noises and – has acne! How it is that your baby could have acne? Relax, baby acne is not uncommon, and it isn’t a sign of poor health or that you are a bad parent.
What is baby acne?
Baby acne is a skin condition that can be present at birth, but it usually shows up when your baby is a few weeks old. It is characterized by small red pimples and whiteheads that may cover your baby’s whole face.
What causes baby acne?
Just like adolescent or adult acne, the causes of baby acne are not completely known. It is thought to be related to the hormones that are still in your baby’s body from the time he was in the womb. These are the mother’s hormones that have crossed into his body via the placenta. His body is reacting to them and working to get rid of them, and sometimes the result is baby acne. Other possible causes of baby acne could be medications that the mother is taking while breastfeeding. Baby acne is not caused by dirt or oil, although you should always take time to wipe your little one’s chin after he’s had a bottle or breastfed.
How can baby acne be treated?
The number one Acne Treatment for baby acne is time and patience. It will go away on it’s own. Other than that here are some important tips:
Avoid scrubbing your baby’s face. It will only make the situation worse.
Avoid putting creams and oils on his face.
Use a mild detergent to wash your baby’s clothes and bedding in.
When washing baby’s face, use plain warm water. There is no need for soap at this age.
Don’t squeeze the pimples!
How long does baby acne last?
Baby acne will last for a few weeks to a few months. He may be six months old before it has completely disappeared.
Although baby acne is distressing for the parents, rest assured that there is nothing at all wrong with your baby. His system is simply making adjustments to the outer world and it will take time. Baby acne is fairly common; so don’t feel like you’ve done something wrong. Follow the tips listed above, and if you are concerned, ask your Pediatrician when you take baby for his next check-up.
Remember that he is still the wonderful, joy-filled gift that you were excitedly waiting for! Nothing can change that. Be sure to appreciate his beautiful smile, his lovely fingers and toes, and the way he smiles when sees you and chuckles when you make funny faces at him. These are the things that make your baby precious and his baby acne; while it is a passing condition, can be a good part of your memories of his first days too, if you choose to view baby acne as a part of his growth rather than a problem.
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