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Baby acne

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Overview

Baby acne is acne that develops on a newborn's skin. Baby acne can occur anywhere on the face, but usually appears on the cheeks, nose and forehead. Baby acne is common — and temporary. There's little you can do to prevent baby acne. Baby acne usually clears up on its own, without scarring.

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Symptoms

Baby acne is usually characterized by small red or white bumps on a baby's cheeks, nose and forehead. It often develops within the first two to four weeks after birth.

Many babies also develop tiny white bumps on the nose, chin or cheeks. These are known as milia.

When to see a doctor

Consult your baby's doctor if you're concerned about any aspect of your baby's complexion. Baby acne usually clears up within three to four months.

Causes

It's not clear exactly what causes baby acne.

By Mayo Clinic Staff
Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic
Diagnosis & treatment
June 09, 2020
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  1. AskMayoExpert. Neonatal acne. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2014.
  2. Pielop JA. Benign skin and scalp lesions in the newborn and young infant. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed March 30, 2015.
  3. Rashes and skin conditions. American Academy of Pediatrics. http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/bathing-skin-care/Pages/Rashes-and-Skin-Conditions.aspx. Accessed March 30, 2015.

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Baby acne

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