How to Deal With Baby Acne
Everyone envisions their child “popping out” with and maintaining perfect skin. Unfortunately, even babies develop acne. In fact, baby acne is one of the most commonly seen problems among babies. Do not worry! Baby acne is never a serious issue, and it needn’t concern you too much. It bothers you way more than it bothers your baby.
When babies are born, some of them may have small red or white bumps on their face. This is not baby acne. This condition is called milia. This milia does not stick around very long. Baby acne is not usually present from birth like milia is.
Baby acne usually occurs when the baby is around two weeks old. It may look like little white heads, or regular pimples with redness and swelling. The baby acne may appear on the face or back.
“But I thought only teenagers get acne!”
Well, acne usually occurs because of a hormone imbalance as well as oily skin. In infants, the hormones they were exposed to in the womb can cause this same reaction. However, take this information with a grain of salt as scientists still have not discovered the true, exact cause of acne for any age of sufferers.
Treatment?
There is actually no treatment for baby acne. They are not old enough to use the medications teenagers and adults use. And the baby acne disappears (usually) on its own within a few weeks.
There are a couple of things you can do as preventative measures. Sometimes, the acne is aggravated by using a harsh detergent. I use Dreft Powder Detergent but there are several other options for safe baby clothes cleaning out there.
In addition to laundry detergent, spit up can also lead to baby’s aggravated skin. Be sure to wipe your baby’s face with a damp cloth as soon as they spit up.
Do NOT fall into the trap of buying a product that promises to clear baby acne. These are a scam. Also, do not use home remedies such as creams or oil as they will harm the baby’s skin even more. If you feel your baby has a severe case, be sure to take baby to the doctor!
