Acne is a common skin condition, characterized by eruptions on the face, chest or back. Though acne generally afflicts teenagers, it's not uncommon to find it in newborn babies too. Acne in babies is known as infantile acne.
If your little one has those small red or pink bumps on his face, you needn't lose your sleep over it. It may look just like the ones in teenage period; but in case of babies it happens due to hormonal changes. It mostly goes off in a matter of weeks on its own. Generally it does not require any treatment too.
Some times maternal hormones may enter the baby's body through the placenta. Thus mothers suffering from acne problem have a high chance of giving birth to babies with infantile acne. The hormones produce the little oil glands on skin to form lesions. These may come out anywhere from 2 weeks to 4 months of the baby. It may be cleaned once a day with mild baby soap and water. Don't use lotions.
Infantile acne is treated the same way as teenage acne. Generally cleansing and applying topical agents is only involved. However, in some severe cases doctors may prescribe antibiotics. The treatment should be continues as long as acne persists.
Some Facts About Infantile Acne
Infantile acne is not a problem but a general condition. So, don't panic. Seek a doctor's advice, if needed.