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Expert Q&A

 

By David L. Fay, M.D.
Family Physician
Associate Director, Waukesha Family Practice Residency Program

My 4-week-old has white bumps on her face and they seem to be getting worse. What can I do to get rid of them?

The most common reason for white bumps on a newborn's face is milia. This occurs in 85 percent of normal infants, and disappears spontaneously a few weeks after they appear. Frequently they cause concern because they seem to "spread"; in reality, they develop and resolve at different times in different places on the face, thus giving the appearance of spreading. There is no treatment, and it causes no lasting problems.

Another common cause is sebaceous gland hyperplasia, a condition of mild overgrowth of the glands. This, too, is not serious and will go away on its own.

Any dermatologic condition is difficult to diagnose without seeing it. If you are concerned, it is best to have your child seen.

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