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"Baby Acne"

This patient information on "Baby Acne" is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida.  This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

What is it?    "Baby acne" is a general term to describe three different types of acne in newborns and infants.  The first is neonatal milia which are like multiple tiny whiteheads on the face of newborns.  This is an extremely common condition and nearly half of all newborns will have some degree of neonatal milia.  True neonatal acne appears at birth or shortly after and looks more like teenage acne with more typical pimples.  It is thought to be due to hormonal stimulation, but this typically resolves on its own after a few weeks or months.  Infantile acne occurs usually at 3-4 months and looks like regular acne with blackheads, whitehead, pimples and pustules.  This type of acne may last 2 to 3 years.  A strong family history is often associated with infantile acne.

Is it dangerous?    It is not dangerous, in only rare cases does baby acne leave any permanent scars.

What home care should I use?

1. Daily cleaning with water and a mild soap or non soap cleanser such Aquanil Cleansing Lotion.

2. In infants over three months old that continue to break out you can try a mild Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Lotion.

Can it be cured?    Treatment may help clear the acne but it is not a cure.  Fortunately "baby acne" is usually self limited and eventually clears on its own.

How long will it last?    Most cases of "baby acne" clear in a few months but some can last for year.

Will it spread?    Baby acne typically stays localized to the face.

Is it contagious?    Acne is not contagious and you cannot "catch it" from anyone.

© John L. Meisenheimer, M.D.  2004                                   WWW.OrlandoSkinDoc.com

Last modified: 10/19/08