Acne Care – Infantile Acne

This is a rare type of acne which is more common in male babies and may last up to three years. It is possible that it may be an indicator of acne in adolescence. The cause of baby acne is due to the mother's hormones passing through the placenta at birth, causing a stimulation of the adrenal glands with ensuing increased oil production in the skin which can lead to baby acne. The hormones are needed for last minute physical development to allow the lungs to expand in readiness for breathing.

Outbreaks usually occur at around four weeks after birth and may well disappear spontaneously. The appearance is rather like small whiteheads surrounded by a red rash which becomes more pronounced when the baby is hot. The most common area for the acne to appear is the cheeks and more rarely the forehead, chin and back.

See your GP who will advise you on what to do, and may prescribe some medication. It is advisable to wash baby's face with either plain warm water twice a day, or use a mild specially formulated baby soap. Oils and creams are not advisable. Basically, leave the skin alone and if baby does start to scratch put mittens on. The condition will clear up with patience.

The Baby Centre Medical Advisory Board, is available to give you support.
www.babycentre.co.uk

Information written by Christine Burden - TalkAcne Web Site Manager