Baby Acne Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, Types and Precautions
When Can Baby Acne Develop?
Acne affects millions of people in the United States and worldwide. Acne generally develops during puberty in boys and girls with the increase of the sex hormones called Androgens. The increase of Androgens (sex hormones) results in more activity within the Sebaceous glands and thus causes a larger production of sebum (sebaceous glands are within the dermis and secrete oil to your skin).
It is difficult to put an exact age on when acne can trigger but babies as young as 8 and 9 may develop acne. Most people outgrow acne by their early to mid twenties. Once acne is detected seek medical advice immediately. Although acne cannot be prevented, once it is detected it can be affectively treated and children and teens can find great relief from the pain and irritation it may cause. It is also important make your child aware of acne and how to apply creams, lotions etc.
Children and teens alike may feel embarrassed and become withdrawn socially, it is vital for them not to feel alone and understand that in most cases acne will clear up in time. Proper prescribed treatments work very well to reduce the lesions and irritation. Excessive use of creams or lotions may result in triggering acne. Understanding the dosage application is important, applying more will simply not clear up acne any quicker. Scratching the region affected by acne is certainly a no go and will cause further infection and soreness.
What Causes Acne to Develop In Babies?
As mentioned in the opening paragraph relating to baby’s acne the sebaceous glands secrete volumes of oil to the skin. The sebum (oil) travels to your skin via your hair follicles. Acne develops when your skin cells become blocked thus trapping the oil. Bacteria begin to grow within the follicles instead of being released. This bacterium is commonly known as Propionibacterium Acne. After a period of time the bacteria with oil release under pressure to the skin causing pimples / and leading to an irritating rash thus developing into acne. Many experts believe that acne may well be inherited. It is also believed to be triggered from the following:
1) Rising levels of Androgens during puberty
2) Pressure put on the skin causing friction (tight clothing around the neck such as collars)
3) Prolonged exposure to humid conditions
4) Prolonged exposure to cold conditions
5) Certain cooking oils
6) Grease and oil released from the scalp region
7) Changes in hormone levels (menstrual cycle)
Although all mentioned above may trigger acne it is not the same for every individual. We have mentioned certain cooking oils above (number 5) but scientific research has produced information stating that eating fast food or chocolate has no direct link to triggering acne irritation.
Where Do The Baby Acne Symptoms Occur?
Acne is not restricted to a particular area of the body but it most likely to occur in the following regions: Face, Neck, Shoulders. It is also common on the upper part of the back and chest area. It is important to look for the symptoms of acne and in doing so you can react quickly with treatment. The following are signs to look for:
1) Solid Red Raised Lumps know as Nodules
2) Lesion that are painful and feel bloated and infected
3) Cluttered blackheads or whiteheads
4) Irritating and persistent red rash
Baby Acne Treatment
Treatment will vary accordingly from patient to patient. After your baby has been assessed by a physician and the severity of acne has been determined, the best acne treatment will be administered. Before treatment for baby’s acne is prescribed it will depend on the following:
1) The age of your baby or adolescent
2) Skin type and tolerance to antibiotics, creams or lotions
3) Severity of the condition
It is not advisable to try multiple over the counter lotions or creams without advice from a professional. Your doctor will know best and save you time and money experimenting on antidotes you try yourself, especially if it’s for your child’s acne
Baby Acne Treatment Methods:
Topical Medication: Antibiotics – Prescribed by a doctor. Antibiotics reduces the inflammation of lesions and slows the acne process by attacking the bacteria.
Adapalene – Decreases lesions known as comedo.
Tretinion – Unplugs blocked up pimples and helps prevent new acne developing