#asktheexperts
my baby has white spots near lips and cheeks from last week
can you please help me to find the reason so I will take care of it

Question

#asktheexperts 
my baby has white spots near lips and cheeks from last week 
can you please help me to find the reason so I will take care of it

Accepted Answer

White spots near your baby’s lips and cheeks can be caused by a few common conditions. Here's a breakdown of possible reasons for the white spots:

1. Milia: Milia are tiny, white cysts that commonly appear on a baby’s face, particularly on the cheeks, nose, and chin. These are caused by keratin (a protein in the skin) becoming trapped under the skin’s surface. Cause: Milia are very common in newborns and usually resolve on their own without any need for treatment. Treatment: No treatment is usually needed, as milia typically go away within a few weeks. 2. Baby Acne: Baby acne may appear as small white or red pimples around the face, including the cheeks and chin. It usually develops between the second and fourth week of life. Cause: The baby’s sebaceous glands can be activated by hormones passed from the mother during pregnancy, which results in acne-like spots. Treatment: Baby acne typically clears up on its own. Keep the skin clean with warm water and avoid using harsh products or scrubbing the affected areas. 3. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Eczema can cause dry, scaly, or flaky patches, and sometimes, these may appear as white spots or patches on the skin. Cause: Eczema is often triggered by skin irritation, allergies, or a genetic predisposition. It can appear as rough, dry patches that can lead to itching or inflammation. Treatment: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to help soothe and hydrate your baby’s skin. If the condition worsens or causes discomfort, a pediatrician might recommend a mild topical cream. 4. Thrush (Fungal Infection): Thrush is a yeast infection caused by Candida that can lead to white spots in the baby’s mouth and sometimes near the lips or on the cheeks. Cause: The infection is common in infants, especially those who are breastfed or use pacifiers. Treatment: Thrush usually requires antifungal treatment prescribed by a pediatrician. 5. Fungal Infections (Tinea or Ringworm): Fungal infections can sometimes cause white spots, and they may be accompanied by redness or a scaly texture. While this is more common on other parts of the body, it can appear on the face as well. Cause: Fungal infections can be caused by the fungus tinea, which thrives in moist, warm areas. If the spots are spreading or causing itching, it’s best to consult a pediatrician. Treatment: Your pediatrician might prescribe a topical antifungal cream if it's diagnosed as a fungal infection. 6. Vitiligo: Vitiligo is a rare condition where patches of skin lose their pigment, appearing as white spots. Cause: It occurs when the cells responsible for producing pigment (melanin) are destroyed. Though it’s rare in babies, it can happen. Treatment: If vitiligo is suspected, consult a pediatrician or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and care. When to Consult a Pediatrician: If the white spots don’t go away after a couple of weeks. If the spots are spreading, or if they’re accompanied by redness, itching, or discomfort. If your baby shows signs of a fungal infection (like thrush) or has a fever.

In most cases, white spots in babies are harmless and resolve on their own, but if you're concerned or if symptoms worsen, it’s always best to check with your pediatrician for a more accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Accepted Answer

White spots on a baby’s face, particularly near the lips and cheeks, can have several potential causes. Here are some common reasons for such spots in babies:

1. Milia: Milia are tiny, white cysts that often appear on a baby’s face, especially on the cheeks, nose, or chin. These are common in newborns and usually develop when keratin (a protein found in skin cells) gets trapped under the skin. Cause: It occurs naturally and doesn’t cause any pain or discomfort. Treatment: Milia usually goes away on its own within a few weeks or months. You don’t need to treat it, but avoid squeezing or picking at the spots. 2. Baby Acne: Baby acne can present as small, white or red pimples around the cheeks, chin, or forehead. Cause: It occurs due to the hormones passed from the mother to the baby during pregnancy, which can stimulate the baby’s sebaceous glands. Treatment: Baby acne typically clears up on its own, but keeping the area clean and avoiding harsh skincare products may help. Avoid squeezing the pimples, as it can cause irritation or infection. 3. Eczema or Dry Skin: Eczema can cause patches of dry, flaky skin that may appear as white spots on the skin. It might also be accompanied by redness, itching, or inflammation. Cause: Eczema can be triggered by environmental factors, allergies, or sensitive skin. Treatment: Use a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Avoid products with fragrances or harsh chemicals. If the eczema appears to be worsening, consult a pediatrician. 4. Fungal Infection: Fungal infections, like candida (yeast) infections, can sometimes cause white spots in the mouth area or on the face. Cause: If the white spots appear inside the mouth or around the lips and are accompanied by discomfort, it could be a fungal infection. Treatment: A pediatrician can prescribe an antifungal cream or medication to treat this condition. 5. Mouth Thrush: Thrush is a type of fungal infection that can appear as white spots in the mouth or around the lips. Cause: Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of candida fungus and is common in babies, especially if they are breastfeeding or using a pacifier. Treatment: Thrush can be treated with antifungal medication prescribed by your pediatrician. 6. Vitiligo: Vitiligo is a rare condition where patches of skin lose pigment and appear white. Cause: The exact cause is unknown, but it is generally not harmful or contagious. Treatment: If vitiligo is suspected, it’s important to consult a pediatrician or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and management. When to Consult a Pediatrician: If the white spots persist for more than a few weeks or if they start to spread. If your baby is showing signs of discomfort, such as itching, pain, or swelling. If the white spots are accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, redness, or irritability.

In most cases, white spots in babies are harmless and resolve on their own. However, if you're concerned or if the condition worsens, it’s always a good idea to check with your pediatrician for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

#asktheexperts my baby has white spots near lips and cheeks from last week can you please help me to find the reason so I will take care of it