Baby acne is not uncommon, and about 20% of babies can sometimes develop acne at birth. Acne can appear on your baby’s forehead, chin, back, neck, or chest. While pimples and redness on the face are usually not a cause for concern, it can sometimes be a symptom of eczema or atopic dermatitis and it’s important to get a proper diagnosis because the inflammation can can spread to other parts of the body. (Also read: Baby massage day: The health benefits of massaging your newborn)
“The skin of babies is very sensitive and vulnerable to the external environment compared to adults. Not all babies have soft, clear skin, some children even have red, lumpy patches. on the skin called neonatal acne. Also known as baby acne, baby acne causes breakouts and redness on a baby’s face and neck area. However, it can also be a symptom. of eczema or atopic dermatitis, an inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy patches to appear on a child’s skin,” says Dr Poonam Sidana, Director of the Department of Neonatology and Pediatrics, CK Birla Hospital Delhi know.
Baby acne usually begins around 2 weeks of age and in most cases clears up on its own by 6 weeks of age without any treatment. However, in the case of eczema, the baby may experience redness, swelling, and scabs on the skin.
“This inflammation usually occurs in babies between 3 and 6 months old and starts in the face and scalp. It gradually spreads to other parts of the body, especially the elbows and knees. For new mothers, it can be quite difficult to tell the difference between a newborn, acne and eczema,” says Dr. Sidana.
Dr. Sidana shares ways that can help identify the difference between the two conditions:
• Year old: Baby or baby acne usually occurs in the 2-6 week age group. A similar condition called infantile eczema can occur after 6 weeks or later until the beginning of the second year. Eczema in babies usually doesn’t appear until the baby is 3 to 6 months old.
• Appearance of acne spots: Both eczema and infant acne can cause papules on the skin. But acne is like smaller pimples, on the other hand, eczema appears as dry, flaky patches on the skin. If an infant is itchy, it could also be a sign of eczema.
• Areas of the body: Acne in children often appears around the neck, back, and chest. However, eczema can extend to the elbows and knees. However, it’s important to note that both baby acne and eczema can appear on the face, chin, and scalp.
• Genetic: There may be a family history of allergies in atopic dermatitis.
Understanding treatment
In most cases, infant acne does not require medical treatment and clears up on its own after a few months.
“If a baby has neonatal acne, the skin should be kept clean and free of any oily products. The affected area should be patted gently, not rubbed. Otherwise, eczema or dermatitis. Allergies in infants are characterized by dry and scaly skin, inflammation, and sometimes chapped and watery eyes,” says Dr. Sidana.
“Although there is no permanent cure for eczema, it is possible to minimize symptoms. Ways to minimize symptoms include keeping the skin hydrated with an appropriate moisturizer, avoiding hot baths and pat skin gently after bath. Skin moisturizer should be done on damp skin to ensure better absorption. Keeping baby’s nails trimmed is important to avoid scratching lesions. itching and wearing loose, soft cotton clothing may help. Atopic dermatitis or eczema may be associated with other medical conditions. You should consult your child’s doctor. for a long-term management plan,” concludes Dr. Sidana.
