Go Gentle: Caring for A Newborn’s Skin
A newborn’s skin is much thinner and more sensitive than an adult’s. It is also much more vulnerable to the external environment, because the epidermis and dermis layers of a baby’s skin have not yet attached to each other as strongly as an adult’s skin layers have.
Due to its more absorbent nature, harsh substances can irritate the baby’s skin more readily. A baby’s skin does absorb water a lot faster than an adult’s skin, but loses water faster.
A baby’s skin is delicate and may become prone to dryness; so moisturise regularly to keep your baby’s skin well-hydrated and soothed.
Resist the urge to bathe your baby too often, as frequent baths may remove the natural oils that nourish and protect your baby’s skin. A baby does not sweat as much as an adult, and does not typically go through a highly active day, so there isn’t a need for numerous baths.
Babies depend a lot on human touch and gentle care, which is why one of the best ways to connect with your baby is through tender touching. Massage your baby with tiny, gentle strokes especially across the chest and tummy. This is the perfect opportunity to apply moisturiser to your baby’s skin.
Always be mindful of the products that come in contact with your baby’s skin. As your baby’s skin is much more vulnerable, choose products that are mild and gentle. Consult a healthcare professional if you are unsure.
Lio P. How Does Infant Skin Differ from Adult Skin? [Internet]. Medscape. 2017 [cited 20 April 2017]. Available from: http://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/743529
Baby bath basics: A parent’s guide – Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. 2017 [cited 20 April 2017]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/healthy-baby/art-20044438
How to Massage a Baby [Internet]. Parents. 2017 [cited 20 April 2017]. Available from: http://www.parents.com/baby/care/newborn/how-to-massage-baby/
