Health Library

May also be called: Neonatal Acne; Baby Acne

Infant acne is a common skin condition in babies. It usually goes away on its own without leaving scars.

More to Know

Some babies are born with or develop small pimples on their face. Most babies who have acne develop it when they’re around 3 weeks old. Infant acne happens most often on the cheeks and forehead, but can also develop on the nose and scalp.

Doctors are not sure what causes infant acne, but think it might be related to hormones or to a yeast that can live on the skin. It is not the same type of acne that older kids and adults get.

Most babies do not need treatment for acne and it usually goes away on its own within a few weeks to a few months. For some cases, a doctor may prescribe a medicated cream to help treat the acne.

Keep in Mind

Washing your baby’s face once a day with warm water and mild soap is usually all the acne care that’s needed. Babies who develop neonatal acne will not necessarily have acne when they’re older.

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