Baby Skin Care

A baby’s skin is very sensitive. Before you use any baby linens or baby clothes for the first time, wash the items in a hypoallergenic detergent or soap formulated for babies. Also, use only soap or bath solution meant for babies when you bathe your infant. Adult products are too harsh for a young baby’s skin.

Babies don’t get very dirty, so you don’t need to bathe your baby every day if you keep the face, head and diaper area clean. Wipe your baby’s face and head gently with a soft, wet washcloth or dampened cotton balls. Be sure to get into all skin creases, especially where dribbled milk might collect. And clean your baby’s bottom well with each diaper change.

When dressing your baby, choose loose-fitting, soft garments and layer for warmth. Be sensitive to your baby’s environment, and be ready to peel off a layer or two when in a warm car, shop or restaurant.

If your baby has little pimples along skin folds, especially on the neck, back, shoulders, chest or diaper area, she may have prickly heat, which can be remedied by avoiding heat and humidity, administering cool baths and dressing her in light, loose clothing.

Even young babies can go outdoors to get fresh air. Just dress your child appropriately. You need to protect him from the sun. While the sun is an important natural source of vitamin D, it can also damage a child’s skin. Shield your baby from direct sunlight by dressing him so he is completely covered and by keeping the stroller hood up.

Once your baby is six months old, you should get in the habit of using sunscreen on your child year round, even on overcast days. Choose a hypoallergenic, PABA-free sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. When applying sunscreen, avoid your baby’s eyes and keep it off your baby’s fingers as your child might rub his eyes. Also, avoid or limit exposure to the sun between 10am and 3pm.

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