What’s The Difference: Baby Acne vs. Baby Eczema

As a new parent, it's natural to worry about your baby's delicate skin. It is prone to various skin conditions, two of the most common being baby acne and baby eczema. Did you know that up to 20% of newborns develop baby acne, while 1 in 5 children under the age of 2 will experience eczema? ^{1 2} This blog outlines the characteristics of baby acne vs baby eczema. Additionally, it will focus on the symptoms, causes and preventive measures to manage them. Let's get started. 

Understanding Baby Acne vs Baby Eczema: Definition

Also known by the name of neonatal acne, baby acne is a common skin condition that develops on a newborn's skin. Similar in appearance to adult acne, this skin condition causes acne breakouts affecting the face and chest of the baby. It is harmless and short-term, therefore, it usually lasts for a couple of days and disappears on its own. ³

Eczema (also known as dermatitis) is another common skin condition affecting newborns and young children in their first year of life. Eczema can appear on the skin in any part of the body but it usually emerges on the face, scalp, feet, arms and legs. ⁴

Decoding The Symptoms

Baby Acne

• Small, red or white bumps ⁵
• Inflammation and redness ⁵
• Pus-filled bumps
• Whiteheads or blackheads (like raised bumps) ⁶

Baby Eczema

• Dry, itchy skin ⁴
• Bumpy rashes ⁴
• Skin pigmentation (red/darker skin than your natural skin tone) ⁴

Causes Of Baby Acne & Eczema

Baby Acne

As per the studies, baby acne is so common that it affects 20% of newborns, and the exact cause is unknown. ³ However, it’s suggested that maternal hormones before giving birth are one of the factors causing baby acne. Fluctuating hormones may affect a baby during birth or in the early phase of his life. Hormones in the placenta can determine the functioning of a baby’s skin to produce sebum. Overproduction of sebum can lead to clogging of pores thereby resulting in baby acne. ^{3 8} 

Baby Eczema

The baby’s skin is sensitive, therefore, you need to take a little extra care. There are many possible factors like genetics, environmental allergens, and skin irritants like certain soaps, cleansers or detergents that can be responsible for causing baby eczema. ^{4 7} 

Baby Acne & Eczema- How To Treat The Skin Condition?

Baby Acne

• Baby acne is a temporary and harmless condition that often disappears without treatment. If it is severe and not showing signs of improvement, consult your paediatrician about potential prescription treatment. ^{3 9}
• You can prevent acne breakouts by following simple hygiene practices. Wash your baby’s skin gently with warm water. ³
• Don’t try to squeeze or pop the pimples on the baby’s skin. ³
• For baby acne, it's essential to choose the right skincare products. Avoid greasy oil-based moisturizers and creams, and instead opt for a lightweight, non-greasy option. ³ 

We recommend Areoveda’s Moisturising Baby Spray Lotion, specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Its fast-absorbing formula moisturizes and soothes the baby’s skin from the very first use. 

Baby Eczema

• Avoid using soaps (scented or fragranced), lotions and detergents. These skin irritants may cause eczema to flare up whenever they come in contact with the gentle baby's skin. ⁴ 
• Topical corticosteroids, often used to treat eczema, can also help alleviate inflammation and symptoms like itching. These medications come in various forms, including ointments, creams, sprays, and lotions. Please note, while using corticosteroids on your baby, it's crucial to follow your dermatologist's instructions carefully. ^{4 10 11}
• Keep your baby's skin happy and healthy by keeping it hydrated. Choose gentle, fragrance-free moisturisers designed for babies to soothe irritated skin, and prevent flare-ups. Looking for one such solution? Try AreoVeda’s Deep Moisturising Baby Cream which provides deep moisturisation for up to 24 hours, relieves itching, hydrates the skin and maintains the skin's natural moisture balance. ⁴ 

Final Note

Baby acne and baby eczema may share some similarities, but they require distinct approaches when it comes to treatment and care. As a parent, being aware of the differences between these two conditions can empower you to make informed decisions about which product to choose.

Want to learn more about natural and cellular proven skincare products specially curated for babies,  visit our blog section And follow us for regular updates, tips, and guidance.

FAQs

Q1- Can Kissing The Baby Cause Acne Problems?

Don't worry, kissing your baby won’t cause baby acne. This common condition is actually triggered by hormonal changes that occur in the first few months of life. ³ 

Q2- I Am A Breastfeeding Mother. Can It Cause Baby Acne?

Yes, it is possible. Hormones from a breastfeeding mother may affect the baby’s hormones and can result in acne breakouts. It’s a temporary skin condition, so you don’t need to worry. ³  

Q3- What Triggers Baby's Eczema?

The baby’s stuffed toys, pollen, dust, heat and sweating - all of this can trigger eczema in newborns. ⁵