Causes and risk factors
The exact cause for its development is not known. However it is more common in full term baby as compared to premature babies. It is said that the acne are caused due to exposure of baby’s skin to maternal hormones, while in the womb, at the end of pregnancy.
Clinical presentation
Baby acne develop 2 to 4 weeks after birth. They are small yellow-to-white coloured papules surrounded by red skin, firm to touch. Neonates present as pimples, bumps involving eosinophils in the vesicular fluid. The lesions may secrete fluid that looks similar to pus. They usually appear on the face and chin. There may be tiny white bumps on cheeks and chin. The acne are prominent when child is fussy or cranky, when the skin is irritated by saliva, milk, rough fabric.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the paediatrician helps in diagnosis. No tests are usually recommended.
Treatment
No treatment is necessary as the condition is self limiting and does not cause any discomfort to the baby. Sometimes medicated local applications may be prescribed.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating baby acne. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating baby acne.
