Why Babies Peel, Get Milia and Have "Newborn Skin" (And Why It's All Worth Documenting)
New parents sometimes arrive at their newborn session slightly anxious about their baby's skin: "She's peeling a lot — will that show in the photos?" or "What are those tiny dots on his nose?"
After 1,200+ newborn sessions, I can tell you: everything you're seeing is normal. And most of it — photographically — is beautiful.
Skin Peeling
Nearly all newborns experience some degree of skin peeling in the first 1–2 weeks. The skin that was protected by vernix (the waxy coating in the womb) begins to shed as it adjusts to air exposure.
The degree of peeling depends on how long baby stayed in the womb — post-term babies (born after 40 weeks) often peel more than early babies. It typically resolves within 1–2 weeks without any treatment.
In photographs: mild peeling adds texture and authenticity. It's part of the story of exactly when these images were made. I work with lighting that flatters the skin naturally. In editing, I can address any areas that are more prominent if you'd prefer.
Milia
Those tiny white or yellowish dots across the nose, cheeks, and forehead are milia — small keratin cysts that form when skin cells get trapped under the surface. They look like small seeds.
They're completely harmless, extremely common (appearing in up to 50% of newborns), and they disappear without treatment within a few weeks.
In photographs: milia are one of the most distinctly newborn details. They appear in images as tiny bright points in close-up shots. I consider them beautiful — documentary evidence of exactly how old these photos are.
Baby Acne
Some babies develop small pimples across the face and upper body around weeks 2–4. This is thought to be related to maternal hormones still in baby's system. It resolves on its own, typically within a few weeks.
Photography timing note: if baby acne is a concern, sessions at Days 3–14 are usually before the acne peak. If your baby has active acne, I can work with lighting and angle to minimise it, and minor spots can be addressed in editing.
Blotchiness and Colour Variation
Newborn skin blotches easily with temperature changes, pressure, and crying. Redness around the face after feeding, mottled patterns on the limbs in cold air — all completely normal.
Erythema toxicum — random red patches with yellow centres, present in up to 50% of newborns — looks alarming and is entirely harmless, usually disappearing within days.
Stork Bites and Birthmarks
Pink or red marks on the back of the neck ("stork bites"), forehead, or eyelids are extremely common and typically fade over the first year. Permanent birthmarks vary widely — I photograph them as part of who your baby is.
FAQ
Should I moisturise before the session?
Gentle baby lotion on dry or peeling areas the night before can soften the appearance, but it's not required. I'll use my own baby-safe product if needed in the studio.
Can you edit out birthmarks or skin conditions?
Minor things — active acne, redness — can be gently reduced. For permanent birthmarks, I discuss with you whether you'd like them reduced or left as-is (many families prefer to keep them).
Book your newborn session here.
Fernanda Bautzer Photography · 231 Yorkville Road SW, Calgary.