How long does baby acne last

consultation with a doctor is suggested if the baby acne lasts beyond three months or becomes more severe. Health advisors have suggested applying breast milk to the acne and allowing it to air dry. Treatment such as hydrocortisone or other products designed to reduce itching and dryness can also be effective in the elimination of neonatal acne, but should be avoided unless the condition is extremely severe or specifically advised by a doctor.

Baby acne neonatorum

Although there is no specific reason for acne neonatorum, the most frequent contributor in the onset of baby acne is an increase in hormones during pregnancy. During the final stages of pregnancy to the final moments before actual birth, extra hormones are produced by the mother and passed on to the infant through the placenta. Included in these hormones are oils which can cause acne. However, maturation of the lungs causing increased production of oils within the body or increased blood flow to the infant's face due to activity or body heat due to over-bundling can also be linked to baby acne.

Baby face acne

Baby acne, or acne neonatorum, resembles a rash on the face of the infant. It differs from milia (milk spots), another commonly found skin condition among infants and babies, in that it often produces a red color upon the skin rather than white blotches and bumps. In fact, it is often mistaken for a form of hives. Baby acne is very similar to adolescent and adult acne as it resembles red pimples or bumps. Blackheads, whiteheads and other types of pustules may also be found on the skin.

When babies have acne

Between birth and the first six months of life, some babies can develop acne on their cheeks, chins and foreheads. Baby acne appears most frequently in male children between four to six months old, but is generally a common condition in all infants and affects up to 20 percent of babies.