What causes white spots on a newborn's face, and what should be done about them?
Oct 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Seborrheic dermatitis is generally caused by excessive sebum secretion. In newborns, overproduction of sebum may lead to white spots or yellow scaly patches on the scalp, around the eyebrows, and on the face. Symptoms may include mild erythema and scaling. Patients can follow medical advice to use medications such as riboflavin tablets, selenium sulfide lotion, and compound ketoconazole cream for treatment.
White spots on a newborn's face are usually caused by conditions such as neonatal acne, milia, seborrheic dermatitis, folliculitis, or vitiligo. Treatment may include general care or medication under the guidance of a doctor. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Neonatal Acne
After birth, residual maternal hormones in the newborn's body may stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil, leading to clogged hair follicles and the formation of white spots on the face. No special treatment is required; simply keeping the face clean and dry is sufficient.
2. Milia
Milia occur due to underdeveloped sebaceous glands and blocked sweat glands in newborns. These white spots are typically the size of a pinhead or small grain of rice and may appear scattered or clustered. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and does not require excessive concern. Avoid overdressing or overwrapping the baby to promote sweat evaporation and skin ventilation.
3. Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is generally caused by excessive sebum secretion. In newborns, overactive sebaceous glands may lead to white or yellowish scaly patches on the scalp, around the eyebrows, or on the face. It may be accompanied by mild redness and flaking. Patients can use medications such as vitamin B2 tablets, selenium sulfide shampoo, or compound ketoconazole cream as directed by a physician.
4. Folliculitis
Folliculitis is commonly caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections entering the body. Bacterial infection of the hair follicles—especially by Staphylococcus aureus—can trigger an inflammatory response, resulting in white spots or pustules on the newborn’s face. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, or fever. Under medical supervision, patients may be treated with medications such as cefuroxime axetil capsules, doxycycline hydrochloride tablets, or cephalexin capsules.
5. Vitiligo
Vitiligo is generally caused by abnormal development of melanocytes. If a newborn has vitiligo, impaired melanocyte function may lead to white patches on the facial skin. It may also be associated with symptoms such as itching or discomfort. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include topical medications such as Runji Skin Ointment, tacrolimus ointment, or dexamethasone cream.
If parents notice white spots on their newborn’s face, they should consult a pediatrician or dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations.
