Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » How to clear up baby acne fast?

How to clear up baby acne fast?

Understanding Baby Acne
Baby acne is a common and temporary skin condition that typically affects newborns, manifesting as small bumps or pimples primarily on the face, particularly the cheeks and nose. This condition can also appear on the forehead, chin, scalp, neck, back, or chest . While it can be concerning for new parents, it’s important to note that baby acne is generally harmless and usually resolves on its own within a few weeks to a few months.
Causes of Baby Acne
The exact cause of baby acne is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to maternal hormones that are passed to the baby during pregnancy. These hormones can stimulate the baby’s oil glands, leading to the development of acne. Unlike typical acne in older children and adults, baby acne does not feature blackheads or whiteheads, which distinguishes it from other forms of acne.
Fast-Tracking the Healing Process
While patience is often the best approach, there are several strategies that parents can employ to help clear up baby acne more quickly:
1. Gentle Cleansing: Keeping the affected area clean is crucial. Use a mild, fragrance-free baby soap to wash your baby’s face once a day. Avoid scrubbing, as this can irritate the skin further.
2. Moisturizing: Applying a gentle moisturizer can help soothe the skin. Coconut oil is a popular choice among pediatricians for its hydrating properties. A few drops can be applied with a cotton ball to the affected areas.
3. Avoiding Irritants: Ensure that your baby’s skin is not exposed to harsh chemicals or irritants. This includes avoiding heavily scented lotions or soaps that could exacerbate the condition.
4. Patience is Key: It’s essential to remember that baby acne typically resolves on its own. Most cases clear up within a few weeks to a few months, so while these methods can help, they may not be necessary for every case.
5. Consulting a Pediatrician: If the acne appears severe or does not improve, consulting a pediatrician or dermatologist is advisable. They can provide guidance and rule out other skin conditions that may require different treatments.
Conclusion
In summary, while baby acne can be distressing for parents, it is a common and temporary condition that usually resolves without intervention. Gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and avoiding irritants can help speed up the healing process. However, the most important factor is to remain patient, as this condition typically clears up on its own. If concerns persist, seeking professional advice is always a prudent step.

What causes baby acne to flare up?

The definite cause is unknown, although it is believed that it is the mothers hormones still circulating in the babies system that stimulate their sweat glands and cause pimples to develop.

Does breast milk help cradle cap?

Skin treatments
When you add in its moisturizing properties, massaging breast milk onto eczema patches or cradle cap (the scaly, yellowish patches that sometimes develop on a newborn’s scalp) can swiftly clear up the problem spots.

Can I put breastmilk on my baby’s face?

Breast milk contains lauric acid, which possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties can help reduce the inflammation and redness associated with baby acne. By gently applying breast milk to the affected area, many parents observe an improvement in their baby’s skin condition.

Can Aquaphor help baby acne?

Can you use Aquaphor for baby acne? There’s no proof that Aquaphor is an effective treatment for acne and might actually worsen acne in people prone to it. However, according to the makers, Aquaphor is an effective treatment for drool rash.

Does breast milk cure baby acne?

Many families feel that breast milk on the skin helps the baby, but it hasn’t been proven to help get rid of baby acne. It’s generally safe to apply breast milk to a baby’s skin, but if this irritates your baby’s skin, it is best to stop and talk with your baby’s healthcare provider.

Does Aquaphor help baby acne?

Can you use Aquaphor for baby acne? There’s no proof that Aquaphor is an effective treatment for acne and might actually worsen acne in people prone to it. However, according to the makers, Aquaphor is an effective treatment for drool rash.

What not to put on baby acne?

Avoid using lotions, ointments or oils.
Such products can make baby acne worse.

What clears baby acne fast?

You can wash her face daily with water and a gentle hypoallergenic baby soap. If the acne’s really bad, you can also try a gentle moisturizer or an ointment. In severe cases of baby acne, your doctor may prescribe a topical steroid, like hydrocortisone.

What age is baby acne the worst?

The acne may get worse by 1 month old, but generally goes away without treatment. It may be helpful to gently wash the baby’s face once a day with a mild soap to keep milk residue off the skin.

How long does it take for baby acne?

Illustration of baby acne on different skin colors. Baby acne often shows up 2 to 4 weeks after birth and clears up without treatment.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment