Baby skin care: how to care for your baby’s delicate skin
A baby’s skin is extremely sensitive and needs special care as it is just beginning to adapt to the environment outside the womb. It is important for parents to understand how to take care of their baby’s skin, as only with proper care can many problems such as nappy rashes, dark circles and other skin changes be prevented.
Structure and characteristics of baby’s skin
A baby’s skin is different from an adult’s because it is much thinner, more translucent and less protected. The epidermis of a baby’s skin is very thin, which means it is less effective at protecting against external influences such as bacteria, chemicals and temperature changes. The first months of life are crucial as the skin starts to develop and become stronger. In addition, baby skin contains more water than adult skin, making it more prone to drying out and irritation.
Because of these characteristics, it is very important for parents to choose the right products and care methods to support healthy skin development and prevent problems such as redness, rashes or dryness.
Baby skin care
The basic care of your baby’s skin includes regular washing and moisturising. For washing, it is recommended to use mild, pH-neutral products that do not contain strong fragrances or harsh chemicals. In the first months of life, it is recommended to bathe the baby’s skin in water without additives, as soaps or bath foams may be too aggressive for sensitive skin.
After bathing, it is important to gently pat your skin dry with a clean, soft towel to prevent irritation. Skin care also includes moisturising, as baby’s skin dries out easily. Use special moisturisers that are adapted for babies to hydrate the skin and protect it from drying out.
Diaper rash
One of the most common problems in babies is nappy rash, which is caused by prolonged skin contact with moisture, secretions and friction. The rash can be quite painful and cause redness and inflammation of the skin. To prevent or alleviate nappy rash, it is advisable to change nappies frequently so that the skin does not stay moist for too long.
After each nappy change, it is a good idea to clean your baby’s skin with special wet baby wipes or with warm water and a soft towel. After cleansing, gently pat the skin dry before re-protecting it with a moisturiser or paste containing zinc, as this helps to protect the skin from moisture. In some cases where a rash is already present, it is advisable to use creams containing corticosteroids, but only on the advice of a paediatrician.
Skin diseases in infants
In addition to nappy rash and dark circles, babies may also develop other skin problems such as atopic dermatitis, skin inflammation, eczema or skin rashes. Atopic dermatitis is common in babies and usually manifests as dry, red and itchy skin. To manage this problem, it is important to keep your baby’s skin moist by using suitable creams and oils and avoiding factors that can cause irritation, such as strong detergents, irritating materials or extreme temperatures.
For all skin problems, it is essential that parents regularly monitor their baby’s skin condition and consult a paediatrician if problems are severe or persistent.
Baby skin care tips
- Regular nappy changes: to prevent nappy rash, change nappies regularly, at least every few hours or as soon as you notice a nappy is wet or dirty.
- Gentle cleansing: use mild, alcohol-free wipes or warm water to clean the skin after changing the nappy.
- Moisturising the skin: after bathing, apply a moisturiser or baby oil to keep the skin soft and hydrated.
- Avoid overheating: the baby should not be too warm, as excessive heat can contribute to skin rashes.
- Avoid harsh products: do not use soaps containing fragrances or chemicals that could irritate the baby’s skin.
