From the Guidelines
Baby acne, medically known as neonatal acne or acne neonatorum, is a common, temporary skin condition that affects newborns, caused by maternal hormones that stimulate the baby's oil glands, and typically resolves on its own without treatment within three to four months. The condition is characterized by small red or white bumps on a baby's cheeks, nose, and forehead, sometimes extending to the chin, scalp, and upper body. Although the provided evidence 1 focuses on acne vulgaris in the general population, discussing its prevalence, burden, and impact on quality of life, it does not specifically address baby acne. However, based on general medical knowledge, baby acne usually develops within the first two to four weeks after birth. Key points to consider in managing baby acne include:
- Keeping the baby's face clean with water and mild soap
- Avoiding the use of oils or lotions on affected areas
- Never squeezing or scrubbing the bumps
- Considering consultation with a pediatrician if the acne is severe, persistent beyond six months, or accompanied by other symptoms, as they might recommend a mild topical medication. It's essential to differentiate baby acne from infantile acne, which appears after three months of age and may require medical intervention, highlighting the importance of monitoring the condition and seeking professional advice when necessary.
From the Research
Definition and Explanation of Baby Acne
Baby acne, also known as neonatal acne, is a temporary skin condition that affects newborns, typically between the second and fourth weeks of life 2. It is characterized by the presence of open and closed comedones, which can evolve into papules, erythematous pustules, and in rare cases, nodules and cysts.
Causes of Baby Acne
The exact cause of baby acne is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the elevated production of placental and neonatal androgens, which cause the enlargement of the sebaceous glands and increase the production of sebum 2.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The symptoms of baby acne include the presence of primary skin lesions such as open and closed comedones, papules, and pustules on the forehead, cheeks, chin, and eyelids 2. The diagnosis of baby acne is clinical, and the main differential diagnoses are neonatal cephalic pustulosis, other neonatal vesiculopustular dermatoses, infectious diseases, and acneiform reactions 2.
Treatment and Management
In most cases, baby acne is mild and transient, and the use of a mild dermal cleanser and water is sufficient for treatment 2. For comedogenic lesions, topical retinoids or 20% azelaic acid may be used, as well as some topical antibiotics for inflammatory lesions 2. The American Acne and Rosacea Society has also developed evidence-based treatment algorithms for pediatric acne, including neonatal acne 3.
Key Points
- Baby acne is a temporary skin condition that affects newborns between the second and fourth weeks of life 2.
- The cause of baby acne is related to the elevated production of placental and neonatal androgens 2.
- The symptoms of baby acne include the presence of primary skin lesions such as open and closed comedones, papules, and pustules 2.
- The diagnosis of baby acne is clinical, and the main differential diagnoses are neonatal cephalic pustulosis, other neonatal vesiculopustular dermatoses, infectious diseases, and acneiform reactions 2.
- Treatment of baby acne typically involves the use of a mild dermal cleanser and water, and in some cases, topical retinoids or antibiotics may be used 2, 3.