Baby Acne and Breast Milk: Causes and Treatment

Acne affects adults, teenagers, and infants. Acne bumps develop on babies' backs, cheeks, and chin, often appearing weeks or months after birth. Baby acne or infantile acne is not permanent, and these bumps gradually improve with time. 

Breast milk is an effective and surprising treatment if you need a solution for your baby's acne. In this article, we will explore the causes of baby acne and learn about using breast milk to treat it. Please keep reading for our in-depth insights. 

Visit us for a more detailed overview of acne, its types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. 

Why does baby acne develop? 

Although it seems strange, baby acne is prevalent. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism in 2013 noted that 20% of babies under six weeks of age have acne. The exact causes of baby acne are unknown, but there are a few theories that explain them.

• One theory relates baby acne to maternal hormones. Babies are exposed to hormonal fluctuations after birth during breastfeeding and even before birth while still in the womb. The fluctuations of these hormones influence the baby's sensitive skin.
• Another theory relates it purely to the baby's skin. As babies have more susceptible skin, their pores clog rapidly and form acne.
• A third theory describes that the yeast that lives on the babies' skin triggers acne in many infants. 

How does breast milk help with baby acne? 

The use of breast milk for acne seems too far-fetched, but many people have found satisfactory results from this remedy. However, there is no research or scientific basis for this claim. Breast milk has antimicrobial properties that can destroy or weaken some bacteria and other germs responsible for acne. 

So, if the acne on your baby's skin is triggered by bacteria, using breast milk to cleanse the skin promises to kill the bacteria and remove the impurities that block the skin pores. It thus reduces the skin inflammation and irritation associated with acne. The use of breast milk for acne 

has moderate efficacy but is free, readily available, and natural. Additionally, it is gentle for the baby's sensitive skin. To treat acne and reduce inflammation, dab a smaller amount of milk on the baby's skin. After dipping it in the breast milk, you can use a cotton ball or just a clean finger. 

Gently rub the clean finger or cotton swab on the face to reduce acne. As breast milk is safe and natural, it is advised to use it several times a day as soon as the acne clears. 

Other treatment options for baby acne 

Although breast milk is a natural remedy for acne, it is not the only remedy, and many remedies help people get rid of the stubborn acne in their babies. Some of these treatments have better efficacy than breast milk. The best tips to treat acne in babies are, 

Avoid scrubbing the bumps: While applying breast milk or bathing the baby, it is necessary to avoid scrubbing and be gentle. The accidental popping of acne bumps causes skin infections and scarring. It also spreads acne lesions on the face. Ensure that the baby does not scratch the skin or get acne bumps. Cover the baby's hands with mittens or baby socks, and keep the baby's nails properly trimmed. 

Avoid putting the lotion directly on the baby's face: Clogged skin pores are associated with acne, so it is necessary to use only moisturising body lotions specifically designed for the baby's sensitive skin. Use non-greasy and fragrance-free baby lotions to avoid skin irritation. Never put the lotions directly on the baby's skin.

Bathe the baby regularly: Newborn babies don't need regular bathing. Therefore, gently cleansing the baby's pores using mild baby soap and warm water ensures better skin health. Baby soap is delicate and gentle for sensitive skin but will likely cause skin reactions and inflammation if used too much. 

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Duration of the baby acne  

Getting rid of baby acne and other skin issues requires patience. Acne is a temporary issue that automatically clears from the skin within a few weeks or months. No regular treatment is necessary if it is mild and doesn't bother the baby. 

If it is stubborn and continues to disturb the baby for many months after birth and responds poorly to home remedies, paediatricians recommend medicated products like creams, lotions and procedural treatments. However, it is advised not to use over-the-counter and other harsh products on the baby's skin. These products contain many harsh ingredients that don't go well with the baby's skin. 

Also, remember that baby acne resembles other conditions like milia, rash, allergic reactions, and eczema. So, it is necessary to consult the paediatrician to determine if any other skin condition is responsible. 

Miscellaneous uses of breast milk 

Breast milk is not just for clearing acne spots on the skin. It has numerous other unexpected health benefits for babies. A few drops of baby milk help soothe conditions such as teething pain, sore nipples, skin rashes, eczema, and ear infections.

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Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the best treatments for baby acne? 

The best treatment options for baby acne are to wash the baby's face daily with warm water, dry the baby's face gently, and pat his skin dry. Avoid scrubbing or pinching the skin, be gentle, and avoid using oils, ointments, and lotions, as such products worsen the baby's acne. Use facial products only on the advice of a registered paediatrician.

Has the mother's diet any influence on the baby's acne? 

The skincare experts agree that baby acne occurs due to the babies' skin sensitivity and hormonal changes, and the maternal diet has a very low impact. Unless the diet influences the levels of maternal hormones, there are no issues with it.

What hormones are responsible for baby acne? 

Transient postnatal secretion of the various androgen hormones is associated with sebaceous gland hypersensitivity and acne in early infancy. However, many other hormones are involved and have a variable role. These include oestrogen & progesterone.

Is the baby's acne associated with the milk allergy? 

The appearance of red bumps on the baby's body or face after six weeks of age suggests cow's milk allergy, eczema, and skin infections. Other signs of these conditions include cracked or dry skin, inflammation, extreme fussiness, fever, and excessive spitting. 

How can acne in the baby be prevented during breastfeeding? 

Many herbal remedies, such as turmeric, rosewater, thyme, and tea tree oil, help lower acne breakouts, are safe for breastfeeding mothers and infants, and help prevent baby acne. Doctors often recommend salicylic acid-based medications or benzoyl peroxide-based products for breastfeeding mothers. 

Does kissing cause acne in babies? 

No, affectionate kissing on babies' cheeks after they are born doesn't cause acne. Acne results from hormonal changes that cause temporary clogging of the pores. 

Bottom-line 

Baby acne is a skin problem affecting infants in the early weeks. So, there is no need to be alarmed if there are whiteheads on the baby's face within weeks and months after delivery. These acne bumps go away automatically in most cases. Home remedies, e.g., aloe vera, honey, and baking soda, help clear the baby's skin quickly and reduce the risk of irritation. 

Nevertheless, the baby's health is delicate, and it is advised to check with the paediatrician in case of any issues. Dr Rydland is one of the best paediatricians in the UK who founded the brand Kids Wellness. Visit us to review and buy various products from this brand.