A dedicated baby skin care regimen can do wonders amid the seasonal changes. These easy steps can help keep your baby’s skin naturally soft, supple and healthy.
Baby’s skin should be adequately protected by following a thorough skincare routine to ensure long-lasting hydration
The skin is a delicate layer that protects the baby from the harsh effects of the environment. The outermost layer of a newborn’s skin is 30% thinner than an adult’s skin, it loses moisture twice as fast, and is more prone to irritation and damage. Several factors including seasonal changes affect the baby’s skin making it vulnerable to rashes, itching, allergies and other complex skin problems.
Baby’s skin should be adequately protected by following a thorough skincare routine to ensure long-lasting hydration. Identifying the best regimen for your little one’s skin can be overwhelming, but you need to remember these simple ABCs to ensure optimal skin health. Dr Indu Surana MBBS, DCH, Consultant Pediatrician & Neonatologist, DBE Foundation & Research Center Howrah, Shri Jain Hospital & Research Centre, Mitra Sangh Hospital, Howrah, West Bank Multispeciality Hospital, ILS Howrah explains the ABCs of skin health.
Dry skin is often worsened by prolonged exposure to heaters, along with everyday activities such as walking, crawling, and bathing in hot water. Moisturizing is an important aspect of baby’s daily regime, as it hydrates the skin and acts as a barrier in cold weather. It is advised to choose moisturizers from brands you can trust, recommended by doctors that are gentle, lightweight and quickly absorbed. Parents must choose the right moisturizer infused with beneficial ingredients like Milk Protein, Vitamin E, Vitamin B5, Aloe, Glycerin to keep baby’s skin soft, supple and nourished. Such ingredients are effective anti-inflammatory and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier to prevent moisture loss and maintain the natural softness of baby’s skin.
It is recommended to use baby lotion for body and baby cream for face. Since the baby’s face is most exposed to cold air, it tends to become dry and patchy. It is important to keep baby’s cheeks hydrated to prevent dryness.
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The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) has developed standardized guidelines for ensuring quality pediatric skin care for newborns, infants and children. According to IAP guidelines, emollients marketed as natural, herbal and organic should be used with caution. Additionally, parents should avoid using natural olive oil and mustard oil as moisturizing agents. It is advised to avoid products that contain parabens, sulfates or dyes as well as alcohol, which can dry out the baby’s skin.
According to the guidelines of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), the right bathing routine can play a vital role in maintaining adequate nourishment for the baby’s skin during winters. Babies can be bathed two to three times a week as long as necessary hygiene is maintained. The IAP recommends that parents or caregivers should use lukewarm water rather than hot water for periods of no more than fifteen minutes. One must use clinically proven mild cleansers with balanced pH levels, hypoallergenic, and specially designed for baby’s delicate and sensitive skin to avoid the risk of rashes and skin allergies. After bathing or sponging, babies should be moisturized immediately to allow for easy absorption and to protect baby’s skin for long-lasting hydration.
During the colder months, babies are more prone to rashes as they are dressed in multiple layers which makes it difficult to change diapers frequently. The diaper area is a sensitive area that is usually wet due to the increased pH level and friction making it prone to infection. It is recommended to change the baby’s diaper frequently and to clean the area gently. It is best to avoid alcohol-based wipes which can further irritate the skin. Parents should use a cloth or cotton ball soaked in lukewarm water to clean the area after defecation and always keep the diaper area clean and dry. If necessary, a mild cleanser with a neutral pH or mild baby wipes with a slightly acidic one can be used for better hygiene. It is best to avoid diapers around the clock to allow baby’s skin to breathe freely.
A dedicated baby skin care regimen can do wonders amid the seasonal changes. These easy steps can help keep your baby’s skin naturally soft, supple and healthy.
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