Baby acne is a common skin condition that affects around 20 percent of babies, according to acnetalks.com. This form of acne is not harmful and in most cases will clear up naturally within a few weeks of developing without leaving scars as adolescent or adult acne tends to do. Some parents may use home remedies to help clear up baby acne, but there is not enough evidence to show the absolute efficiency of these products.
Description
Baby acne is the development of small pimples in patches on your baby's cheeks, chin and forehead. This type of acne is typical in infants and clears up eventually. Mayo Clinic states that the best treatment for baby acne may be no treatment at all, but rather letting the acne run its natural course. Baby acne begins appearing around two to three weeks after birth and lasts up to six months or more. Infantile acne occurs at three to four months and can last up to a few years.
Symptoms
Baby acne typically appears as white pimples that spot the skin, and in some cases as red rash-like splotches, similar to adult acne. However, unlike adult acne, which is prone to develop in oily locations, babies can develop acne in non-oily parts of the body, including the back, stomach, thighs and bottom.
Treatment
Your baby's skin is very sensitive and thin. Proactiveacnesolutions.com explains that applying adult acne creams and medications to your baby's skin might result in greater skin complications and reactions, so any creams that are used should be made specifically for infants. It is important to bathe your baby with warm water and a mild soap to keep his skin clear of bacteria and germs. Most importantly, patience is key. As your baby continues to adjust to her environment and develop, her hormones will regulate themselves and the condition of her acne will naturally improve.
Home Remedies
Some home remedies have been used by parents to help improve the condition of their infants' skin, but they may not be suitable for all infants and should be used sparingly. According to baby-safety-concerns.com, a number of infant skin care products that contain vinegar are available to help reduce or eliminate acne, because vinegar absorbs excessive oil and kills bacteria. You can make a vinegar solution by mixing one part vinegar with 10 parts water. Placing a small portion of solution on a cotton ball, gently wipe the affected area with the cotton ball, avoiding the eyes. Another solution that parents have used is made by adding 1 tsp. of honey with 1 tsp. of lemon juice. If you are attempting these solutions for the first time, use a very small portion and test the solution on another part of the baby's body first to check for any reactions.
Prevention
Because baby acne is usually caused by internal hormonal changes in the baby, there are not many ways to prevent the onset of baby acne. If you breastfeed, watch your diet and avoid fatty foods. Be sure to add fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet and drink plenty of water. Keep the area around your baby's mouth clean and dry by thoroughly and gently wiping saliva and spit-up from your baby's face after feedings. Be careful not to let your baby overheat and avoid direct sunlight on your baby's skin, as heat and sweat can also be irritants that can negatively affect your baby's skin condition.
Warning
In bathing your child, do not scrub your baby's skin, but use soft, stroking motions and be sure to remove soap suds before removing your baby from the bath. Do not use adult acne creams or oils, as these products may worsen the condition of your child's skin. If your baby's acne worsens or becomes painful or inflamed after two to three weeks, report this to your baby's pediatrician
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