Newborn skin is delicate — and so is the baby’s immune system. Chemicals, fragrances, and dyes in clothing, detergents, and baby products can cause newborn skin irritation, dryness, chafing, and rashes. However, there’s much you can do to protect your baby from these skin problems
A newborn baby is born with wrinkly skin and a protective covering called vernix that peels off. This is a natural process during the first week. There’s no need to rush it, rub it, or treat it with lotions or creams. (If baby is born past the due date, this process is likely finished in utero).
With newborn skin care, the adage is “less is more.” Bathing babies too often — plus too much exposure to chemicals and other potential allergens — can set the stage for skin allergies later in life.
Don’t use baby products in the early months.The immune system is still developing. If you have a family history of skin problems, allergies, or asthma, it’s especially important to protect your baby’s immune system — and protect baby from irritating allergens.
Washbaby’s clothing before it’s worn. Use only baby laundry detergents that are fragrance- and dye-free. Wash baby clothes, bedding, and blankets separately from the family’s laundry. Give everything an extra rinse.
Resist the urge to bathe your baby frequently.Too-frequent bathing removes the natural oils that protect baby’s skin. That leaves baby’s skin vulnerable, so it reacts to any potential allergen — triggering a reaction like eczema.
Except for drool and diaper changes, newborns don’t get very dirty. Babies aren’t working 9 to 5 and hitting the gym afterward! For the first month or so, a sponge bath two or three times a week will keep your baby safely clean. In between, simply clean baby’s mouth and diaper area with a little water or cleanser.
Once-a-week sponge baths (or even less) are best for newborns with darker skin tones (like African-American). These infants tend to have dryer skin and have a higher risk of skin problems such as eczema.
to prevent diaper rash-
Check diapers frequently.
Change diapers immediately when wet or soiled.
Wash the diaper area with mild fragrance-free cleanser or plain water. If the rash is severe, use a squirt bottle to cleanse without rubbing.
Use a soft clean cloth, not baby wipes. The perfume or alcohol in many wipes can further irritate and dry baby’s skin.
Pat baby dry. Don’t rub. Let the diaper area air-dry fully before putting on a fresh diaper.
Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) or a protective ointment
Avoid using baby powder. Corn starch-based powders promote yeast growth. Talcum powder may cause lung problems if inhaled.
See your pediatrician if the rash doesn’t clear up in two to three days.
Giving your newborn a massage is important one-on-one time. Like cuddling, a massage is a way to convey your love and affection for your baby. In fact, research shows that a baby’s very survival depends on being touched by others — as touch triggers hormones, boosts immunity, and helps fight disease. Also, massaged babies are calmer, sleep better, and cry less — every parent’s dream
There’s no special technique to massaging a baby. Find a carpeted floor in a warm room. Simply lay baby on a soft blanket or fabric. Get a little baby oil or a gentle lotion. Warm it in your hand. Then gently massage baby’s chest and tummy — using a gentle yet firm touch. Try to make eye contact and talk to your baby. Sing softly.
Choose a high quality,certified organic or pesticide free (check with the manufacturer) base oil such as sweet almond or jojoba, with a little natural vitamin e (use the contents of an oral vitamin capsule) an ideal all-round oil suitable for cleansing Baby’s nappy area, massage and moisturising the skin. Jojoba is said to closely resemble the skin’s sebum – actually a ‘wax’ rather than an oil which makes this an ideal choice if allergies are common.
