Baby Scratching Own Face
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Chen, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Pediatrician
Content reviewed against published AAP, Mayo Clinic guidelines
Last reviewed:
Your baby's physical development is unique, and concerns about baby scratching own face, here is what you need to know.
The short answer
Newborns commonly scratch their own faces because their movements are uncoordinated and their nails are sharp. This is normal and not a sign of distress. Regular nail trimming is the best prevention. Mittens can be used temporarily but should not be used long-term as babies need to explore with their hands.
Key takeaways
- Newborns commonly scratch their own faces because their movements are uncoordinated and their nails are sharp. This is normal and not a sign of distress. Regular nail trimming is the best prevention. Mittens can be used temporarily but should not be used long-term as babies need to explore with their hands.
- Usually normal when: Superficial scratches on the face from uncoordinated movements
- Call your doctor if: Scratch marks that become infected: spreading redness, swelling, pus, or fever
- Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
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What Parents Should Know
According to AAP, Mayo Clinic guidelines, newborns commonly scratch their own faces because their movements are uncoordinated and their nails are sharp. This is normal and not a sign of distress. Regular nail trimming is the best prevention. Mittens can be used temporarily but should not be used long-term as babies need to explore with their hands. At 0-1 month, newborns frequently scratch their faces because their arm movements are jerky and uncoordinated. This is completely normal. The scratches look alarming but heal very quickly due to the excellent blood supply to facial skin. Regular nail trimming (every few days) is the most effective prevention. Baby mittens can be used for short periods, especially during sleep, but avoid using them all the time as babies need to feel and explore with their hands for sensory development. Swaddling also prevents face scratching during sleep. It is generally considered normal when superficial scratches on the face from uncoordinated movements. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if scratch marks that become infected: spreading redness, swelling, pus, or fever.
Normal vs. Concerning
By Age
What to expect by age
0-1 month
Newborns frequently scratch their faces because their arm movements are jerky and uncoordinated. This is completely normal. The scratches look alarming but heal very quickly due to the excellent blood supply to facial skin. Regular nail trimming (every few days) is the most effective prevention. Baby mittens can be used for short periods, especially during sleep, but avoid using them all the time as babies need to feel and explore with their hands for sensory development. Swaddling also prevents face scratching during sleep.
1-3 months
As hand control improves, scratching may become more purposeful. Some babies scratch at their ears or face when tired, overstimulated, or if skin is itchy (possible eczema). Keep nails trimmed and consider if the scratching might indicate itchy skin.
3-6 months
Scratching becomes less accidental and more purposeful. If baby is scratching at specific areas repeatedly, evaluate for eczema or other skin conditions causing itch.
6-12 months
Scratching from uncoordinated movements should no longer be an issue. Persistent scratching may indicate itchy skin conditions, ear infections (scratching at ears), or habits.
What to Tell Your Pediatrician
- Describe when you first noticed baby scratching own face and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if baby scratches frequently at specific areas (ears, scalp) suggesting itch or discomfort.
- Mention if scratches are deep or seem to be in the same spot repeatedly.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Superficial scratches on the face from uncoordinated movements
- Scratches that heal within 1-2 days
- Improvement as baby gains hand control
- No signs of skin irritation or infection at scratch sites
- Baby scratches frequently at specific areas (ears, scalp) suggesting itch or discomfort
- Scratches are deep or seem to be in the same spot repeatedly
- Skin around scratches appears red, inflamed, or eczema-like
- Scratch marks that become infected: spreading redness, swelling, pus, or fever
- Deep scratches near the eyes
What You Can Do at Home
- Keep track of when you notice baby scratching own face — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
- Remember that superficial scratches on the face from uncoordinated movements — this is generally within the range of normal.
- At 0-1 month, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
- Provide plenty of supervised floor time and tummy time to support your baby's physical development.
- While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if scratch marks that become infected: spreading redness, swelling, pus, or fever.
Related Conditions
Cutting Newborn Nails Safely
Newborn nails are soft but surprisingly sharp and grow quickly. You can start trimming them within the first few weeks. Use baby nail clippers, baby scissors with rounded tips, or a gentle nail file. Many parents find it easiest to trim nails while the baby is sleeping. Accidentally nicking the skin is common and heals quickly.
Early Eczema Signs in Newborns
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) can appear in babies as early as 2-3 months of age, presenting as dry, red, rough, and sometimes itchy patches, most commonly on the cheeks, scalp, and outer surfaces of the arms and legs. It affects about 10-20% of children and is manageable with regular moisturizing and, when needed, medicated creams prescribed by your pediatrician.
Related Resources
Frequently asked questions
Is baby scratching own face normal?
When should I call the doctor about baby scratching own face?
When is baby scratching own face normal?
What causes baby scratching own face?
What should I mention to my pediatrician about baby scratching own face?
Is baby scratching own face normal at 0-1 month?
Is baby scratching own face normal at 1-3 months?
Should I go to the ER for baby scratching own face?
Does baby scratching own face go away on its own?
References
- [1]American Academy of Pediatrics. Newborn Nail and Skin Care. HealthyChildren.org. AAP
- [2]Mayo Clinic. Newborn Care Basics. Mayo Clinic
Doctor Visit Checklist
Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Baby Scratching Own Face.
Things to mention
- Describe when you first noticed baby scratching own face and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if baby scratches frequently at specific areas (ears, scalp) suggesting itch or discomfort.
- Mention if scratches are deep or seem to be in the same spot repeatedly.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
Observations to share
- Baby scratches frequently at specific areas (ears, scalp) suggesting itch or discomfort
- Scratches are deep or seem to be in the same spot repeatedly
- Skin around scratches appears red, inflamed, or eczema-like
Urgent signs to report immediately
- Scratch marks that become infected: spreading redness, swelling, pus, or fever
- Deep scratches near the eyes
My notes
From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members
Related Resources
Bottom line
Most cases of baby scratching own face are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if scratch marks that become infected: spreading redness, swelling, pus, or fever.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
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Cutting Newborn Nails Safely
Newborn nails are soft but surprisingly sharp and grow quickly. You can start trimming them within the first few weeks. Use baby nail clippers, baby scissors with rounded tips, or a gentle nail file. Many parents find it easiest to trim nails while the baby is sleeping. Accidentally nicking the skin is common and heals quickly.
Early Eczema Signs in Newborns
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) can appear in babies as early as 2-3 months of age, presenting as dry, red, rough, and sometimes itchy patches, most commonly on the cheeks, scalp, and outer surfaces of the arms and legs. It affects about 10-20% of children and is manageable with regular moisturizing and, when needed, medicated creams prescribed by your pediatrician.
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