Overview

Baby acne is acne that develops on a newborn's skin — often on the face and neck. The condition is common and temporary. There's little you can do to prevent baby acne. It usually clears up on its own without scarring.


Symptoms

Baby acne is small, inflamed bumps on a baby's face, neck, back or chest. It often develops within 2 to 4 weeks of birth.

Many babies also develop tiny, pimple-like bumps on the face. These harmless spots, called milia, disappear on their own within a few weeks.


When to see a doctor

Talk with your baby's health care provider if you're concerned about your baby's skin.


Causes

Baby acne may be caused by the effect of the mother's hormones right before birth.


Sep 28, 2022

  1. AskMayoExpert. Neonatal acne (neonatal cephalic pustulosis). Mayo Clinic; 2022.
  2. AskMayoExpert. Infantile acne. Mayo Clinic; 2022.
  3. AskMayoExpert. Milia (child). Mayo Clinic; 2022.
  4. Schmitt BD. Newborn rashes and birthmarks. In: Pediatric Telephone Protocols: Office Version. 17th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2021.

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