Baby acne is quite common, but if your experience with babies is new, you might be surprised to find your little one born looking nothing like the beautiful babies on diaper and baby wash advertisements.  Red and wrinkly and sometimes screaming, a newborn can be quite a sight at first.

Even more surprising are the pimples you see developing on your little one’s face days or even weeks later.  You probably thought pimples were something that your baby wouldn’t have to deal with for another 13 to 14 years.  But unfortunately, that just isn’t the case, so let’s take a look at what you can do to help your baby.

Baby acne, officially known as acne neonatorum, affects around 1 in 5 newborns. Typically you will notice pimples on their cheeks, chin, or forehead.  Some babies can develop acne immediately after birth, and others won’t see it until a few weeks later.  Fortunately, this condition goes away on its own after a month or two.  It’s important to note that a similar condition that is totally unrelated to baby acne can also cause bumps on a newborn’s face. This condition is called  milia, which usually disappears on its own within a few weeks.

Granted, it is a surprise to see acne so soon and long before the teenage years, there is actually an explanation for your newborn’s blemished skin.  It’s most likely a combination of factors.  If you are using petroleum or mineral oil based products, they can absolutely cause baby acne.  Skin irritation from perfumes in the laundry detergent you are using can play a role, as well as certain medications. Babies are born with a limited amount of mom’s hormones in their systems which can cause acne. So can any medications that Mom has taken while pregnant.  Usually, once the baby is no longer in contact with these medications or hormones, blemishes clear up as these substances leave the little one’s system.

There are certain things that can be done to help reduce or even prevent baby acne.  First, avoid using oils and lotions on baby’s face.  You can wash their face with just water or a mild baby soap, but don’t scrub the skin because this will cause more irritation on already sensitive skin.  Try using all natural cleansing products and detergents.  Do not use acne prevention creams, lotions or medications on your child. These products are designed for the skin of teenagers and adults and can be harmful to a baby.

Do not pick at or pop the pimples; leave them alone.  Baby acne generally heals on its own and doesn’t leave any permanent marks.  If the blemishes have not cleared up by the time your child is three months old, talk to your pediatrician. They can guide you on any further treatments to provide for your infant.

Don’t panic!  Your infant is not alone when it comes to baby acne.  And the reality is, by the time your bundle of joy has filled out and started looking like and doing the adorable things seen on those baby ads, baby acne will no longer be a concern for either of you.