Baby skin is soft, smooth, and very sensitive. Your child’s skin is still getting used to life outside the womb. As such, it needs careful care and attention to remain healthy and comfortable. Your baby can’t yet express their skincare needs to you, so you’ll have to keep a close eye on it for them. Check out these essential tips for keeping your baby’s skin healthy.
Watch for diaper rash, and treat it at the first sign
Diaper rash is extremely common in babies, and the cause of it isn’t always clear. Sometimes it comes from wearing diapers that are too tight, wearing wet diapers for too long, or in reaction to particular baby wipes or detergents. To prevent diaper rash, try to change your child’s diaper as soon as they go potty and give them breaks from wearing diapers, leaving them open to the air as long as possible throughout the day. If you notice diaper rash beginning to form, wash the area gently with a warm, damp cloth and put zinc oxide cream on the area. Always consult a doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s health.
Nip dry skin in the bud
Dry skin is also common with babies because of the gentle and sensitive nature of their skin. Babies who are born a bit after their due date are often even a little more likely to experience dry skin. It’s nothing to be worried about as long as the skin underneath looks healthy and moisturized. Continue to moisturize your baby with safe, unscented lotions, and contact your pediatrician with any concerns or questions you may have about your child’s dry skin.
Rash around the nose
A rash may appear under your infant’s nose when they have too much congestion. A runny nose in an adult typically won’t result in irritated skin because grown-ups can wipe their noses and moisturize the area. Your baby can’t do this for themselves, so congestion often turns to a painful rash around their tiny noses. To prevent this, try using a baby ear and nose cleaner when your child seems congested, has a cold, or is experiencing seasonal allergies. This helps to clear their nasal passageways and prevent the snot from sitting on their skin. If a rash does develop, put a very light layer of petroleum jelly on the area. As always, call your pediatrician if you have any concerns about keeping your baby’s skin healthy.
