The skin of a newborn is delicate, and parents must take extra care to protect their babies from skin problems such as rashes, chafing, skin irritation, and dryness.
Wash baby’s clothes, blankets and bedding separately from the rest of the family laundry if possible, using a laundry detergent that is free of fragrances and dye. Make sure your baby only wears soft clothing!
Avoid products on baby in the first few months. This includes baby lotion, cream, powder, and all other products marketed for infants. This is because your baby’s immune system is still developing, and it is important to protect your little one from any allergens. When it comes to applying products on baby skin, remember that less is more—especially if you have a family history of asthma, allergies, and other skin problems.
Resist bathing your baby frequently. Bathing your newborn too often may remove the natural oils that product your child’s skin, thus leaving it vulnerable. Your baby doesn’t get very dirty apart from diaper changes, spit-up and drool, and so a sponge bath twice or thrice a week should be more than enough to keep your baby clean. In between, you may wipe your baby’s diaper area and mouth with a bit of water. Avoid using bar soap and giving bubble baths.
More often than not, diaper rashes in babies result from the prolonged exposure to a wet or soiled diaper. In order to prevent and treat diaper rash, make it a point to check your baby’s diapers frequently, and check immediately if he or she is soiled or wet. Wash the diaper area with plain water or a mild cleanser, and pat dry with a soft, clean cloth. Avoid using baby wipes with alcohol or perfume as they may dry and irritate your baby’s skin. Allow the diaper area to fully air-dry before putting on a new diaper.
Finally, protect your baby from the sun. Avoid taking your child out between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. If your baby needs to go out in the daytime, be sure to apply a broad- spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15. Protect your baby’s skin by covering him or her up with a hat, long-sleeved clothing, and pants. If your baby is below 6 months old, only apply sunscreen to areas that are difficult to cover with clothes.