Source: flickr.com user ericcasequin
Most babies don’t look like the Gerber baby. That gorgeous peaches-and-cream complexion may come later, but many newborns and babies suffer from common skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and acne. What most parents don’t realize is that their baby’s breakouts should actually be left alone – no acne treatment required! However, there are a few things you can do to help your baby stay comfortable while their skin clears up on its own. But first, a bit more about baby acne and why it’s affecting your child.
Infant acne generally appears when the child is three to four weeks old, but it can occur earlier or later. Infant acne should not be confused with milia, another skin condition that commonly affects newborns and infants. How do you tell the difference? Baby acne will look just like the acne you had as a teen – white heads and red, inflamed pimples. Milia appears as flesh-toned or while bumps that are raised but not terribly inflamed.
Although the true cause of baby acne isn’t known, there are a few theories that seem more like common sense than anything else. Many believe that infant acne is caused by excess hormones in the baby’s body, left over from pregnancy or labor. As the body attempts to rid itself of these hormones, it can trigger the acne. Others believe that it is caused by the baby’s oil production regulating itself, or the baby’s skin simply adjusting to being out in the open. Whatever the cause, it’s important to remember that your little one’s acne will clear up on its own!
Parents will sometimes try to treat their baby’s acne with everything from acne products to breast milk. Although applying breast milk to your infant’s face will do nothing more than make a mess for you to clean up, it is extremely important that you remember to never, ever apply acne treatment products to your child’s skin! They will do nothing more than irritate and harm your baby.
If your child’s acne seems particularly bothersome, you can gently wipe away any excess oil with pure water or an infant face cleanser. Just remember to keep yourself under control – multiple cleanings each day will lead to more irritation, inflammation and redness. Also, try to reduce the number of irritants that come into contact with your baby’s face, such as harsh detergents or greasy sunscreen products. Even milk or spit up can aggravate baby acne, so keep a cloth on hand for spills and spit up.
Lastly, don’t let your baby’s acne get in the way of your bonding! Even though your sweet baby’s appearance may upset you, he or she is still the same perfect child your body nourished and protected for 40 weeks. Who knows? Maybe the cure for baby acne is a kiss from mommy! So, don’t forget to slather some love on that little baby’s face.
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