Infant acne

Infant acne is a common skin condition for babies. It's characterized by small red bumps on the face that appear within the first four weeks after birth.


Causes/associated factors
Researchers don't know for sure what causes infant acne. Maternal hormones passed to the baby through the placenta just before birth may play a role. The baby's own hormone production before birth and side effects of certain medications taken by the mother during pregnancy, such as lithium or Dilantin, may also be factors. Often, one or both parents has a history of acne. Infant acne is more common in boys than girls.

Signs/symptoms
Infant acne may be present at birth or develop within the first four weeks of life. Typically, it appears as small red or white bumps on the baby's forehead and cheeks, but it may develop anywhere on the face.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a physical exam. No specific medical tests are needed unless another condition is suspected.

Treatment
Most cases of infant acne clear up on their own without treatment by ages 3 months to 6 months. At home, wash your baby's face with warm water two or three times a day and pat it dry. Don't use lotions, oils or other treatments, and never pinch or scrub the acne. You may cause more irritation or an infection.
If the acne doesn't clear up, your child's doctor may suggest topical medications (applied to the skin) such as benzoyl peroxide gel or tretinoin. Occasionally, oral antibiotics (taken by mouth) are prescribed.


Complications
Permanent scarring from infant acne is unlikely. Rarely, infant acne may be a sign of a hormonal problem that requires medical treatment.

Prevention
There's little you can do to prevent infant acne. Again, it's a good idea to wash your baby's face with warm water every day.