What are the treatment options for baby acne?

Baby acne is a facial rash of small red bumps or pustules that can appear in the early weeks of life. It often settles with time, but several newborn rashes can look alike. A clinician may ask when the rash began, whether the baby seems comfortable, and whether there are signs of infection or another skin condition.

Wash gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser when needed, then pat the skin dry. Avoid scrubbing, squeezing spots, essential oils, adult acne products, and heavily fragranced creams. Emollient therapy may be recommended when the skin barrier is dry or irritated. Topical antifungal treatment should be used only when a clinician identifies a reason for it.

Keep drool, milk, and saliva from sitting on the skin, and change damp clothing or bibs. Use clean hands before touching the rash and wash fabrics that rub against the face with a gentle detergent. Take a clear photo if the appearance changes, so the clinician can compare it at review.

Find more detail about [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) and [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/).

Contact a clinician if the rash spreads quickly, forms blisters or crusts, becomes hot or swollen, or does not fit the usual mild pattern. Seek urgent care if the baby has a fever, is unusually sleepy, feeds poorly, has breathing difficulty, or seems seriously unwell. Do not apply a medicated cream to a newborn’s face unless it has been recommended for that baby.

Does this look like baby acne or another newborn rash? Which cleanser and moisturiser are suitable? Should we use any treatment, and where should it be applied? What changes would mean we should contact you sooner?