Baby acne, also known as acne neonatorum, is a condition which affects most of the new born babies, who may either be born with acne or develop it after birth. Baby acne is a common condition and a very normal affair. If it is not present from the birth, it might appear at 3 to 4 weeks of age and last until your child is between 4 and 6 months old. The acne, in case of babies, is like small red papules, which mainly affect the cheeks and the nasal bridge. In infants, acne usually develops as rashes and red pimples and gets blown up when the baby is upset or overheated.
What Causes Baby Acne
Baby acne usually develops as a direct result of the change in the hormonal levels in expectant mothers, when she is giving birth. It is only a little time before child birth that the mother’s hormones are allowed to pass through the placenta to the baby. This passing of the hormones is very important, as it results in the essential last minute development in the body of the child, such as increasing the size of the lungs in order to prepare the child for breathing air.
These hormones also play a vital role in stimulating oil production in the baby’s skin. Increase in the levels of oil, as a result of passing of hormones, causes babies to develop acne on their cheeks. Usually, the acne disappears once the mother stops breastfeeding the child. Acne may also be caused due to bad nutrition in a child or even when the child is in contact with dirty clothes. Saliva or split milk and excessive scrubbing can worsen situations. Sometimes, certain medications might trigger acne in babies.
