Acne on the face is a common problem for infants who are younger than 6 months of age. An infant's cheeks, chin or forehead may develop acne within the first few weeks of his life and last up to several months. Acne can also be present on the face of an infant at birth.
Appearance
Infant acne looks like small whiteheads on areas of reddish skin. Baby acne appears worse when the baby is hot, causing an increase in blood flow to the surface of the skin. Food, milk or saliva that remains on the infant's skin can irritate his acne, as can rough fabric. Strong detergents on your baby’s clothes can also irritate acne.
Causes
Infants receive androgenic and estrogenic hormones from their mother through the placenta near the end of the pregnancy, and these hormones can stimulate the formation of acne. These hormones can also pass through breast milk if the infant is breastfeeding.
Time Frame
Infant acne appears when the baby is between 2 weeks and 2 months old, according to SmartMomma.com. Acne may persist until the baby is 6 months old, or it may disappear within a few weeks, as the hormones from the placenta leave her system. The acne can also disappear after the mother ceases breastfeeding. BabyCenter.com recommends consulting a pediatrician if your baby's acne persists for longer than 3 months.
Treatment
Treatment for acne on the face of an infant involves methods to reduce irritation and itching. Keep the area around the mouth clean and dry. Wash your baby's clothes using chemical-free detergents. Wash your baby's face with water and mild baby soap once a day and pat his skin dry to avoid irritating the acne.
Warning
QuickAcneRemedy.com recommends avoiding feeding your baby soy milk because it contains ingredients that can mimic the effects of the hormones that cause acne. Creams and oils can further irritate the acne. Over-the-counter medicines and topical remedies for acne may not be safe for use on an infant. Excessive washing of your baby's skin can further irritate her acne.
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