Teens and adults are not the only ones who suffer from acne; babies are also susceptible to this skin condition. Baby acne pictures look similarly like adult severe acne pictures, probably because neo-natal acne manifest the same acne symptoms such as fleshy or red pimples and blemishes as with acne vulgaris. (Read more about Baby Acne)
Cause
The predominant cause of severe acne pictures is exposure of the baby to the mother’s hormones in his last days in the womb. These maternal hormones affect the baby’s underdeveloped oil glands, causing a baby acne flare-up. Moreover, the baby’s skin is not yet fully developed so it is prone to acne bacteria that can make the blemishes worse.
Other factors that can affect baby acne flare-up are the use of harsh detergent on baby’s clothes, as a reaction to the mother or the baby’s medication, spilt milk or saliva on the baby’s face, and rough fabrics.
Treatment
Though most 2 to 4 weeks old babies are prone to this skin condition, treatment or medical intervention is not necessary. It’s a normal stage in a baby’s life and it’s difficult to prevent, though gentle cleaning of the face with water at least once a day can help relieve symptoms. It usually goes away on its own.
Preventive Measures
While it may take time for baby acne to disappear, there are preventive measures you can do to prevent it from getting worst and cause discomfort for your baby.
- As disturbing it can be to see baby acne pictures, avoid the urge to squeeze, scrub or even pick your baby’s neonatal acne, as it can make things worse.
- Don’t use adult acne skin care products on your baby as it can be too harsh for your baby’s skin.
- Do try natural baby acne tonics.
- Clean your baby’s skin with water at least 3 times a day and pat it dry.
- Avoid using soap, lotion, or oily baby skin care products on the affected areas.
- You can also keep pictures of baby acne to see if your baby’s skin condition is getting better each day.
When to Call a Doctor
While neonatal acne can be visible on your baby’s face, neck, head or chest, it should not cause any discomfort to your baby. If your baby developed any symptoms such as poor feeding, discomfort, fussiness, lethargy, cough, fever, and infection associated with the rash or acne, it’s time to see your doctor so it can be evaluated and preventive measures be taken. Also, call your doctor if your baby’s acne becomes severe and lasted beyond 6 months.
As you observe your baby’s severe acne pictures, do not despair. It is a treatable condition and it will usually disappear in due course. All you need is patience and take the necessary measures not to make the condition worse.