Infant Acne

Infant Acne

A lot of surprises await parenthood, and among them may be the unpleasant discovery of acne on your baby’s cheeks and nose. Well, there is noting to worry about it since infant acne is just so common and it will generally clear up within a matter of days. But what really is the cause of infant acne?

According to some studies, newborn babies often break out with acne-like bumps on their face as a result by oil trapped in the hair follicle. These bumps, which are the common signs of infant acne, are generally located on the cheeks although they may also cover the chin and the forehead. The infant acne may also be the result of an exposure to the significant changes in hormones that are usually experienced in the womb prior to childbirth. It is commonly noted that without any form of treatment, infant acne may only last for a few weeks, but may recur until the baby is amount six months old.

Many experts have suggested that if the infant acne persists after several weeks, it is then wise to see a doctor to check your baby’s condition. A number of medical explanations for persistent or severe infant acne are in fact there. It is usual phenomenon that a doctor may ask about the medical history of the baby’s immediate family in order to identify if the baby has a genetic predisposition to developing acne.

Furthermore, the infant acne may indicate hormone production. It has been maintained that the production of sex hormones early in the child’s life actually introduces the great possibility of early sexual development. In this case, a medical attention is highly needed so to prevent whatever moderate disabilities as well as developmental disabilities that are associated with sexual development may occur. Certain studies also note that infant acne could be the cause of an exposure to medication, which in fact can worsen the infant acne. It is with this reason that the elimination of the offending medication is considered for the infant acne to banish in few weeks.

Infant acne usually will not persist after two years of age. This is supported by the findings of the American Academy of Dermatology which show that the stage of life between the ages of two and six are known as the “acne free zone”. Perhaps a proof for this is the fact that during this stage, the production of sebum is low. So if your child is suffering with infant acne during this period, it is then very necessary to consult with your doctor.