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Baby acne is a skin condition that may be
present at the time of birth or may develop within three to four weeks
after birth. In fact, it is very common among newborns. Baby acne
usually appears on the chin, cheeks or forehead in the form of
whiteheads, blackheads or pustules. Unlike, teen or adult acne, baby
acne is harmless and usually resolves on its own within a few weeks.
The
reason behind those red patches on your baby's face may be the transfer
of hormones to the infant through the placenta. These hormones will
stimulate the oil glands on your baby's skin and eventually give rise to
baby acne.
Baby acne tends to become prominent
when your baby cries and becomes hot and fussy. It will further worsen
if your baby's skin comes in contact with wet saliva and milk among
others. Baby acne can last up to several weeks.
One thing,
however is to be noted that baby acne is different from 'milia' which a
skin condition also found in new born babies. Milia can occur at the
time of birth and cause redness of the skin. This condition fades within
2 weeks of birth. If the condition persists more than that, you should
better consult a physician.
As talked earlier, hormones are
generally responsible for occurrence of baby acne. Hormones from
mother's milk or those acquired at birth from womb can cause surge in
hormones of the baby. Baby acne clears up on its own after
breast-feeding is done.
Therefore, baby acne is not a condition
to worry about but it is also not a condition which you can play with.
Do not resort to vigorous washing or the use of acne skin care products
as they may cause irritation and worsen the condition further. The acne
will clear up on its own within a few weeks. If it doesn't, consult your
doctor and take appropriate steps as guided by him.
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