When does neonatal acne typically appear post-birth?

Neonatal acne typically appears between 2 to 6 weeks after birth. This condition arises due to the influence of maternal hormones that can stimulate the infant's sebaceous (oil) glands during the early weeks of life. The presence of these hormones can contribute to the blockage of hair follicles, leading to the formation of small red bumps or pustules commonly observed on the baby's face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, and chin.

While it can be tempting to consider a slightly wider timeframe, the specific 2 to 6-week range is supported by pediatric dermatology research, which indicates that most cases of neonatal acne become noticeable in this period as the hormonal levels stabilize post-delivery. Recognizing the typical appearance timeframe is crucial for parents and caregivers to understand that this condition is usually self-limiting and will resolve without intervention in a few weeks to months as the baby grows.