How to care for baby skin ?

Newborn skin is delicate and so is the baby’s immune system. Chemicals, fragrances and dyes in clothing, detergents can cause newborn skin irritation, dryness, chafing and rashes. Your new baby’s skin is still developing, so it needs special care. As their skin adapts to their new world, many newborns experience these common skin conditions.

Ø  Bath Time

Too frequent bathing more than three times per week during the first year of life removes the natural oils that protect baby’s skin.Baby need maximum of two to three baths a week in warm (not hot) water to stay clean. Avoid bar soap and bubble baths. Support your baby’s head and test the temperature of the water on the inside of your wrist. Never leave your baby while she is in a bath – not even for an instant.

Ø  Wash and Wear

Newborns tend to have sensitive skin. So always wash the new clothes and towels before using them. Use only baby laundry detergents that are fragrance and dry-free. Wash baby clothes, bedding and blankets separately from the family’s laundry. Don’t use scented baby products in the early months. This can irritate your baby’s delicate skin.

Ø  Eczema and Dry skin

Many babies experience eczema or dry skin. Eczema appears as a red, itchy rash mostly on face and scalp, at the elbows and behind the knees.

Few Tips :

·         Avoid the things you think may cause itching such as dust, grass, detergents and perfumes. Make sure baby wears only soft clothing, preferably cotton.

·         Try once a week bathing. Give your baby short baths.

·         Check with doctor about using over the counter lotions or creams to treat eczema. You may need a prescription treatment.

Ø  Diaper Rash

Many babies experience diaper rash at some point. Most often, diaper rash is caused by the irritating wetness of a soiled diaper. The rash can also develop when baby’s skin is not properly dried after a bath.

Check diapers frequently. Change diapers immediately when wet or soiled. Wash the diaper area with mild fragrance free cleanser or plain water.

Ø  Block The sun

For babies younger than 6 months, try to keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible. When you take them out in the daytime, use these items to cover and protect her tender skin:

·         A hat, tightly woven clothing with long sleeves and pants.

Also, try not to take her out between the hours of 10am and 4pm, when the sun is strongest.

Ø  Baby Massage

A better way to monitor the healthiness of your baby’s skin is through massage. Giving your newborn a massage is important one on one time. Massage is a way to convey your love and affection for your baby. Massaged babies are calmer, sleep better and cry less.