After nine long months, your baby has finally arrived! Not only are you over the moon, but are also ready for anything. You spent the last nine months making sure you had everything a newborn baby could ever need.
Unfortunately, even with all of your meticulous planning and preparation, you were totally taken off guard when you noticed that red rash on your baby’s bottom.
Newborns have extremely sensitive skin, so it’s important to use products that are irritant-free and gentle on their delicate skin.
Since their skin is still developing, babies are extremely vulnerable to sun damage, cold air as well as other irritants. Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to encase your child in bubble wrap. Instead, follow these four tips on alleviating sensitive skin for babies.
Wash Baby Clothes Before Putting Them On
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, you should wash baby clothes before they wear them. Doing so will get rid of any irritants from the store or the factory that can cause your baby’s skin to itch.
However, it’s recommended that you don’t throw your baby’s new onesies in the wash with any type of detergent with fragrance. Using a soap that has less fragrance and fewer dyes is the way to go.
Don’t Bathe Your Baby Too Much
Contrary to popular belief, parents don’t have to give their child a bath every day. The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated that three baths a week during a baby’s first year are enough. You may be wondering why this is the case. Babies who are bathed too frequently are prone to a breakdown the natural barriers found in their skin. Over time, this can lead to drying and peeling off their delicate skin.
Outside Protection
When your baby is ready to head outside, make sure that you apply baby-approved sun protection. In addition, protect your baby from unwanted bug bites by attaching netting around their stroller or carry seat. Make sure you spray for chemical free pest management inside your home. The last thing you want is to have critter bites when they should be safe in their crib. Insect bites can become infected, bring agony and pain to a little one.
Spot Clean Your Baby
Although a full-on bath every day isn’t necessary, it’s crucial that you keep your baby’s face clean from things like saliva and milk.
If a baby’s skin is constantly exposed to moisture, whether it’s sweat, saliva, milk, urine or water, it can cause the skin to become irritated. Also, moisture buildup can cause an existing rash to become swollen and more painful as well.
Use Lotion
If your child’s skin starts to peel, don’t worry as it’s completely normal. All babies experience peeling and dry skin, especially during their first month of life. Their skin may be able to absorb water, however, it can’t effectively hold on to the moisture because their skin barrier isn’t developed.
If your baby’s skin is still peeling after the first month, feel free to apply a fragrance-free moisturizer. It’s worth mentioning that creams and lotions are best for warmer climates while thick creams are better for cool weather.
