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Hyperpigmentation in Babies

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition in which portions of the skin darken in color. Hyperpigmentation can affect people at any age, from birth onward. In most cases, hyperpigmentation in babies does not require any special treatment.

  1. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

    • Hyperpigmentation can be the result of skin damage or irritation, such as rashes, eczema or scratches. Skin discoloration will gradually fade once the healing process is complete.

    Freckles

    • Freckles are small brown spots that appear anywhere on the body. Freckles are an inherited characteristic, so babies are more likely to have freckles if their parents have freckles.

    Moles

    • Moles can be flat or raised and range in color from yellow to black. Moles can be present at birth or may appear later in life.

    Mongolian Spots

    • A Mongolian spot is a pigmented birthmark that is brown, gray, or bluish in color. Typically, these discolorations appear on the back or buttocks and will fade by adulthood.

    Cafe-Au-Lait Spots

    • These hereditary spots are light brown in color and oval in shape. They may be present at birth or appear during the first year of life.

    Tip

    • Sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation. Dress babies in loose-fitting clothing and a hat to protect their skin from the sun.

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