Baby acne usually develops about 2 to 4 weeks after birth and is characterized by tiny red or white bumps, usually on the baby’s face. A rash, on the other hand, can have a different appearance, depending on the cause. Even adults can find it difficult to identify their skin issues.

Baby acne actually falls under the umbrella of a rash. “A rash is defined as any skin change, and broadly speaking, neonatal and infantile acne are both considered rashes,” O’Neill says.

Baby acne, or neonatal acne, is common and usually clears up on its own. Some rashes may need treatment, however, so it is important to know the difference between baby acne, rashes, and other skin problems. Babies have very sensitive skin, so caregivers may worry that spots or a rash are a sign of an allergic reaction or a health condition.

If your new baby develops pimples or blemishes, it’s probably baby acne. This common condition is harmless, and it usually goes away on its own within a few months. There’s nothing you are doing wrong as a parent to cause it. The best thing you can do for your baby is to be patient and practice gentle skin care on their fragile skin.