To treat baby acne, it is important to understand what it is first. With adult acne, your body produces hormones, which will stimulate to sebaceous glands to produce more oil. The oil production begins in your follicles and as your hair grows, it brings it out through the layers of the skin. The follicles become clogged with oil and bacteria and your skin becomes inflamed. In baby acne, it begins much the same only the hormones cross the placenta during birth and then stimulate the baby's sebaceous glands. Your baby's skin is irritated by those hormones and that is when the little pimply bumps occur. It can occur in one area or all over the body. Baby acne can also be caused by certain medications or if nursing, by ingesting something that is in the breast milk that could cause acne to flare up. When flared up, looks like little whiteheads and the skin may be red.



Baby acne may not reveal itself right away. They can get it right at delivery or up to three weeks of age. It occurs in both genders, more typically in boys.

To treat it, simply wash your baby with a mild soap and warm water. Once a day should be sufficient. Never use harsh soaps, exfoliants or scrubs as this could irritate their skin even more. When they are done with the bath, pat them dry with a soft towel, don't rub their skin abrasively. Acne is an internal issue and being dirty will not cause acne so it is important to remember not to over wash your baby's skin as this will cause further irritation. Also, avoid using lotions or oil as this could also cause further irritation. If you insist on using lotion, use a lotion that is oil free, hypoallergenic and does not contain any fragrance.

Keep in mind the type of fabrics you are using as well as detergents. Certain fabrics may cause irritation in your baby's skin, including their clothing, blankets and towels. Use mild, hypoallergenic detergent when washing your baby's fabrics.

If your baby has severe acne, there are over the counter products available. It is advised to speak with your doctor or medical professional when using any product for your newborn. Some rather safe products you can use are creams such as hydrocortisone. Ionic silver is the safest treatment available because it not only kills bacteria, but it also promotes healthy skin and reduces irritation.

Do not use adult acne products on a baby's skin. Adult skin is much more developed and is used to fighting off bacteria. Adult products are much too strong for developing skin in babies and could cause even more breakouts.

Baby acne is not genetic; it's just the reaction to hormones. Just because your baby has acne as a newborn does not mean he/she will have it as an adult.

If the baby acne does not go away at four months, talk to your doctor. They are not in any danger of scarring; it's just an irritant to them.