What should you know about infant pimples?

Red or skin-coloured bumps may occur on the cheeks, forehead, chin or scalp. Some are infant acne, while others reflect irritation, blocked follicles or another rash. A symptom label such as [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/) does not identify one condition. A clinician may consider [Acne](/conditions/acne/), [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/), [Hormonal Acne](/conditions/hormonal-acne/) or [Perioral Dermatitis](/conditions/perioral-dermatitis/) from the pattern and the baby’s overall health.

Clean the face gently with lukewarm water and a mild fragrance-free cleanser, then pat it dry. Keep saliva, milk and oily hair products from sitting on the skin, and wash soft cloths regularly. Do not squeeze the bumps or use benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, scrubs or adult acne medicines unless a paediatric clinician specifically directs you. Cosmetic light devices such as [LED Light Therapy](/treatments/laser-and-energy/led-light-therapy/) are not a routine home treatment for an infant.

Seek prompt medical advice if the bumps spread quickly, become hot, swollen, painful, crusted or pus-filled, or if your baby has fever, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness or breathing difficulty. Arrange a routine review when the rash persists, leaves marks, involves the eyes or is difficult to distinguish from eczema or infection. The urgency comes from these warning signs, not from the mere presence of pimples.

Ask which diagnosis best fits the bump pattern, whether a product or medicine could be contributing, and which cleanser is suitable. Mention the baby’s age, when the rash started, whether it itches, and any fever or change in feeding.