Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffBaby acne is usually characterized by small red bumps or pustules on a baby's cheeks, nose and forehead. It often develops within the first two to four weeks after birth. Baby acne may look worse when your baby is fussy or crying.
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.
- O'Connor NR, et al. Newborn skin: Part I. Common rashes. American Family Physician. 2008;77:47.
- Hay WW, et al., eds. Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Pediatrics. 20th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill; 2011. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=6580202. Accessed April 17, 2012.
- 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 April 20, 2012.
- Pielop JA. Benign skin and scalp lesions in the newborn and young infant. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed April 17, 2012.
- Hoecker JL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. April 25, 2012.


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