Baby pimples: what is baby acne?

Acne in infants, or neonatal acne, is a common condition in newborns between 2 and 5 weeks after birth. It generally manifests itself as the appearance of small red pimples on the face. Around 20% of babies are affected by baby acne in the first few months of life.

Baby acne is mainly caused by a hormonal surge in the mother at the end of pregnancy and by androgenic hormones in particular. These hormones penetrate the placenta and reach the foetus. They indirectly affect the baby's sebaceous glands and lead to an overproduction of sebum. This overproduction of sebum can block the skin's immature pores and make small red pimples appear, a symptom of acne. This condition is temporary and generally disappears as hormone levels stabilise.

When sebum is no longer able to evacuate properly, it accumulates in the pores, causing the appearance of small pimples. This phenomenon can be exacerbated by the use of occlusive products that are too greasy or film-forming, which block the pores even more, preventing the skin from breathing and aggravating baby acne.

In some cases, baby acne can also be caused by bacterial spread on the baby's skin. However, this is a rarer cause. When the sebaceous glands are blocked, the clogged pores create an enclosed environment helping spread bacteria. This can lead to a localised inflammatory reaction, causing redness and rashes.

Infant acne can sometimes present symptoms similar to an allergic reaction in a baby. Unlike a flare-up of baby acne, an allergic skin reaction requires comprehensive management involving identification of the allergen and, in some cases, appropriate treatment. If you suspect your baby has an allergy, ask your GP for advice.

Baby acne appears from the very first weeks of a baby's life. Acne generally disappears naturally after a few months, without the need for any special treatment.

This common skin condition in toddlers is not painful and does not leave any scars. There is no need for concern.

However, if your baby still has pimples after the age of 6 months, don't hesitate to contact your paediatrician for a diagnosis.

A baby's skin is particularly sensitive. So it's important to be very careful about the hygiene products you use. Make sure you opt for gentle, natural products to clean your baby.

Are you breast-feeding your baby? Breast milk is a natural antiseptic! It contains numerous active ingredients that regenerate and soothe the skin. To help soothe your baby's skin, try applying a little of your milk directly to the pimples using a clean compress.

Note: breast milk can also be used to relieve the symptoms of nappy rash.

To deeply nourish baby's skin, it can be tempting to apply oily creams or natural products. Creams high in lipidic active ingredients such as olive oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, etc. are not suitable if your baby has baby acne due to excess sebum.

If your baby has baby acne, you'll need to be patient, especially if it's due to maternal hormones. There are no ready-made solutions. After a few weeks, your baby's body will learn to regulate itself and hormone levels will return to normal. As a result, the acne will disappear on their own.

Above all, don't touch your baby's pimples! Never try to pierce or remove them. They will go away on their own.

In addition, skin reactions in young children can be caused by multiple factors. In infants, a rash may be linked to roseola, atopic dermatitis, a food allergy or an allergy to a hygiene product. It is advisable to consult a health professional to get a precise diagnosis and establish an appropriate treatment plan if necessary.