Today I will be sharing the best newborn skincare tips that are worth knowing. Even though babies’ skin is described as being perfect, you will find that this is not always true. During the first year of their lives, skin blemishes are quite commonplace. I remember when my child was born, during those first few days, his skin was everything but perfect. But with the following best newborn skincare tips, you can keep your little one’s skin smooth and healthy.
8 Best Newborn Skincare Tips Worth Knowing
Keeping an Eye Out For Dry Skin
It is not necessary to use moisturizer on all babies. Small areas of dry skin is normal for most babies during the first few weeks after being born. Keep in mind, they are still getting used to life outside of the womb. If you notice dry or cracked skin, you can apply a small amount of petroleum jelly-based baby-friendly products.
Check for products that are free from dyes or perfumes, that will not worsen the issue. Natural plant oils like coconut, sunflower seed, or olive oil can be beneficial. However, it is recommended to do a skin patch test first to see if it does not have any adverse effects on your baby’s skin.
Taking Care of The Umbilical Cord
After bringing your newborn home, his umbilical cord will still be attached to his belly button. The area must be kept dry and clean until the cord eventually comes off after about one to three weeks. It is essential not to try and remove it or pull it. Leave it to fall off on its own. It is not necessary to apply any rubbing alcohol or substance to speed up the drying process or to prevent infection. However, you should contact your baby’s doctor if you notice any of the following:
- Excessive amount of bleeding
- Fever of 100 degree Fahrenheit or higher
- Pus
- Discharge that smells foul
- Any swelling or redness
Not Sweating Cradle Cap
Cradle cap is a commonplace issue in babies that usually happens between ages three weeks and three months. You will notice greasy-looking and yellowish patches, also referred to as plaques on the crown of your baby’s head and his scalp. It can also develop on the eyebrows, forehead, and around his ears.
In most instances, the issue will resolve itself. However, you can apply a tiny amount of emollient like mineral oil to the affected areas before bathing your baby. Wash your baby’s head and scalp with a gentle shampoo that is suitable for babies. If the condition does not improve after a few washes, speak to your healthcare professional about possible treatment.
Sticking to Best Practices When Bathing Your Newborn
You should bathe your baby frequently, however, it is not necessary to do so every day. Newborns sleep a lot and do not play outside like toddlers. Therefore they don’t get dirty. You can use lukewarm water and a soft washcloth to wash their genitals, hands, face, and other body parts in between baths in the tub. Just be mindful that washcloths can sometimes cause dryness and skin irritation.
The best practices for bathing your little one include:
- Hold your newborn securely while bathing them and never leave him unattended
- Never use hot water – it must be lukewarm
- The room temperature must be warm
- Keep baths prompt – between five to ten minutes at a time
- Wash your baby’s face and eyes with only water, no soap
- Only use dye-free and fragrance-free baby wash for washing your newborn
- Make sure your baby is patted dry completely before putting on his diaper and clothing
Trying to Stay Out of the Sun
A baby’s time in the sun must be restricted as much as you can. When you take them for a stroll outside, be sure to keep their sensitive skin out of the sun, even during Winter. Sunscreen must not be used on babies younger than six months of age. Rather do the following:
- Keep him in the shade whenever possible.
- Dress your baby in lightweight, loose-fitting clothes with his legs and arms covered.
- Restrict sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm when ultraviolet rays are most potent.
- It is vital to keep your baby hydrated with baby formula or breastmilk if you are spending time outdoors.
- For children older than six months, it is recommended to use a sunscreen with SPF of at least fifteen.
- If you are using sunscreen on your baby older than six months, make sure you are using an appropriate baby -friendly product.
Avoiding Any Triggers That Might Cause Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis triggers are anything that could cause an allergic skin reaction in your baby. It might present itself in various ways, including dry, cracked, peeling, or red and swollen skin.
The following are commonplace allergens and triggers that might cause contact dermatitis:
- Urine
- Cosmetics
- Saliva
- Perfumes
- Detergents and soaps
- Latex
- Dyes
- Lotions
- Certain metals
If you are unable to determine what is causing a reaction, you should consult with your child’s doctor. Treatment often entails at-home remedies and the following recommendations:
- Dressing your baby in loose-fitting, comfy clothing. Avoid fabrics that might cause skin irritation, like wool.
- Using dye-free and unscented baby products on your baby’s skin.
- Bathing baby each day in lukewarm water until the rash subsides.
- Avoiding any substances that may cause irritation or rash, if known.
Preventing Heat Rash
Heat rash is brought on by your baby becoming overheated. It regularly occurs near skin folds or areas where his clothes are rubbing against his skin. A heat rash entails tiny red spots on his skin that is usually noticeable in babies with a light complexion. Heat rash happens when sweat glands become blocked, caused by humid and hot weather, ointments, oils or other products that lead to sweat glands becoming overworked or blocked which result in rash.
To treat heat rash in a baby, keep his skin cool and steer clear from any oil-based baby products. A cool washcloth or bath can help to reduce itchiness and to clear the rash. If the rash does not show improvement within three days, or if the skin becomes infected, or your baby develops fever higher than 100 degree Fahrenheit, or higher, contact your doctor immediately.
Checking for Nail Growth
A baby’s nails are thin and small, however, they can be sharp, which could lead to scratches on his body or face. It can be nerve-wrecking to cut those tiny nails, but it is important to keep an eye on them and not allow it to grow long and sharp. A baby’s nails grow rapidly, so keep them trimmed or file them down every week or so.
You can use a baby nail clipper or non-metal nail file and gently reduce the length. It helps to cut or file his nails while he is asleep and his body is relaxed to prevent any jerking movements that could lead to injury.
Conclusion
I hope these 8 best newborn skincare tips have been helpful. A baby’s skin is the largest organ of his body and it is essential to keep it healthy. Remember to keep it dry, clean, and out of the sun. Also, remember that less is more. Do not overdo it with baby moisturizers or other skin products which can only cause skin issues or make it worse.
Babies are susceptible to various skin conditions during their first year. If you notice a rash, or he has a fever of 100 degree Fahrenheit or more, or he has an infection that does not seem to go away, you should consult with your baby’s doctor.
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