Babies have very soft, sensitive skin and their skin is more prone to rashes and allergic reactions if not properly cared for. A baby's skin needs time to adjust to the new environment that now surrounds her. This may be scary as a new parent – especially when the ins and outs of baby skin care are uncertain to you. Below are some helpful tips to keep your little one’s skin healthy.
Bathing
Some parents prefer to bathe their babies more often than others. Some like to wash their babies daily, but it is actually better to allow a couple of days between baths for the first couple of months at least. A baby’s skin naturally builds up oils that help in the process of getting used to the environment around her. Washing them away or exposing her skin to soaps too frequently can result in skin reactions.
Regardless of how often you choose to wash your baby, use gentle baby soap, free of synthetic fragrances and dyes, as well as lukewarm water. Opt for natural cotton towels and washcloths to clean your baby and to gently get the bath water off of her skin. When the bath is over, dry your baby off in a room that is free of air conditioners and fans.
Using Baby Powder
If you opt to use baby powder for your baby’s diaper area, be careful when choosing a talcum powder. Only use products designed for babies and avoid those with fragrances as they may irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. It's also good to avoid herbal powders if using in the diaper area as it may also irritate your little one’s diaper region.
Diapering
Although diapers are mainly used to keep your baby’s diaper area clean and fresh, some diapers may irritate your baby’s skin, leading to rashes or infection. One way to prevent this is to change your baby’s diaper as soon as you realize your baby has wet or soiled it.
If your child seems to be sensitive to a brand of diaper, consider trying another brand. Another option is to use cloth diapers, which can be used without the added chemicals used in traditional disposable diapers (just be sure to use free and clear detergents).
If a diaper rash occurs and you seem to have a hard time getting rid of it, reach out to your pediatrician for treatment help.
Dry Skin
Babies should not have dry skin. Below are some options for hydrating dry skin on your little bundle of joy: