Pimples in newborns: What are they and what causes them?
Many newborns begin to show these bumps on their skin during the first weeks of life, usually on the face but they can also appear on different parts of the body.
These pimples are actually benign, harmless skin rashes, but they do cause some discomfort, such as mild itching, which can cause discomfort for the baby and concern for parents, especially first-time parents.
It's important to know that this clinical picture is mild and leaves no lasting effects. They usually appear in the first 7 to 10 days after birth and disappear in the following weeks, and may come and go during the first month of life.
“
Approximately 50% of newborns worldwide suffer from pimples and skin rashes.
Causes of pimples and rashes in newborns
The causes are varied and sometimes unknown, but it is believed to be a response to the hypersensitivity of babies' delicate skin to the environment, so it is considered natural, as their skin is trying to adapt to life outside the womb.
They are characterized by a series of reddish or orange bumps that resemble an insect bite, which may have a white dot in the middle. They usually predominate on the face, but can also appear on the upper chest, back, arms, and legs.
These rashes affect all boys and girls equally, regardless of race or climatic conditions.
There are different skin conditions such as toxic erythema of the newborn, dermatitis, and newborn acne, and some other less common but very similar signs and symptoms, so it is ideal to know how to differentiate and diagnose them correctly.
Different skin conditions that cause pimples on newborns' skin
• Toxic erythema of the newborn: This is a skin rash characterized by small red spots with a white center. It usually appears on the face, arms, and legs, and also on the chest, but not on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This is what allows for diagnosis and differentiation from other conditions.
• Diaper rash: This is a skin rash caused by prolonged exposure of a newborn's skin to moisture, such as urine in the diaper and feces that touch the skin.
• Candidiasis: This is a rash caused by a yeast-like fungus. It is very red and usually accompanied by small red bumps at the edges. It can appear on sensitive mucous membranes, such as around the mouth. This condition requires medical treatment.
• Miliaria or milia: This is the blockage of pores caused by sweat retention in the skin, resulting in small red bumps and blisters. It is common in very hot environments and occurs at any age.
• Milium cysts: These are small white or pearly bumps that occur on the face of between 20% and 50% of newborns, especially on the cheeks, forehead, and nose. They are caused by keratin retention. No treatment is required, as they disappear spontaneously in the first months of life.
• Newborn acne: This acne is caused by exposure to the mother's hormones. It usually appears in the first month of life and can appear and disappear up to 18 months. It is characterized by reddish bumps with a white dot in the center.
• Seborrheic dermatitis: These are greasy, crusty patches on the scalp that appear in the first 3 months of a baby's life. They don't require medical treatment and usually go away on their own.
• Eczema: This is a condition characterized by dry, thick, dark-colored patches on a baby's skin that are itchy and dry. This condition is hereditary and is often associated with allergies and asthma.
• Hives: These are reddish welts of varying sizes and shapes that appear to move around on the skin. The cause is unknown, but they usually disappear within a few weeks.
"It's important to see a pediatrician to diagnose the rash and avoid confusing it with other skin conditions."
What is the treatment for pimples or rashes on a newborn's skin?
Treatment is mostly symptomatic, meaning it only requires basic skin care to ensure comfort and allow the condition to progress and resolve over the next few days.
-
Avoid using ointments, creams, or powders, as these can cause further discomfort to the newborn.
-
Limit bathing with lukewarm water to relieve discomfort.
-
Let the condition run its course and allow the skin to adjust to the environment.
Its appearance cannot be prevented, but it is important to see your pediatrician to diagnose the rash and avoid confusing it with other skin conditions that can lead to complications in your baby's health.
Remember that it is very important to keep your pediatrician's appointment schedule, especially in the first few months, as it is possible to detect any congenital defects or allergic reactions in your baby in time and treat them, thus preventing them from causing adverse effects on their growth.