Although new parents are often concerned about the occurrence of acne in their children, it is actually a very common condition in babies. More than 30 percent of babies are either born with acne or develop a rash very soon after their birth. Acne in babies generally starts when they are round about three weeks old.

This condition can last until a child is approximately four to six months old in some cases. Some research studies have indicated that baby acne is most frequently caused by hormones that are passed from the mother to the baby through the placenta before birth. The studies have also found that these hormones actually stimulate the oil glands of the babys skin and result in acne.

Sometimes, the baby will have pimples, but most baby acne occurs in the form of a red rash. Whiteheads are very common as well. The face is usually the most common site of baby acne, but the condition may also appear on the arms and chest. In some cases, acne in babies can become severe. This is often the case when a baby is agitated such as when he or she has become over-heated, or if some illness is involved. If there is irritation to the babys skin, the irritation will cause the acne to get worse. Therefore, it is important that any towels and bibs that will come into contact with the baby are not washed in harsh detergents. Additionally, some experts have suggested that parents always carefully remove saliva or milk from their babys face to avoid the possibility of further irritation in that area as well.

The spread of baby acne can be controlled if parents make a point of washing the childs face with a mild baby soap and water. There is no need for parents to search for a cure for baby acne. It is a common condition that, with time, will clear up on its own. It is also important that parents do not apply oils or medications to the babys affected skin. These applications will not help, and they may even worsen the skins condition.

Of course, parents should always make sure that their babys skin condition is really baby acne and not a sign of another problem such as an allergy. If they suspect that their baby is having an allergic reaction, parents should try to find the source of the irritation and remove it.