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As a parent, you know that there is nothing more delicate than your baby's skin. We don't say 'soft as a baby's bottom' for nothing. Babies have a lot of skin for their tiny little bodies and it's much thinner than ours. This means that your baby's perfectly soft skin will absorb almost anything that's put on it, so when it comes to skin care for your baby: less is definitely more.
Except for drool and diaper changes, newborns don't get very dirty. With all the diaper changes and wiping of the mouth and nose after feedings, most babies may only need to be bathed 2 or 3 times a week. Bathing more frequently may actually dry out their skin, particularly if harsh soaps are used or moisture is allowed to evaporate from the skin.
Keep the room a warm, comfortable temperature and use a slightly warmer than lukewarm water. Simply use your hand or a gentle, soft washcloth. Many parents may choose to simply use water, but if you want to use a soap, go for a mild toxin-free all-natural soap that nourishes the skin like the gentle Baby Bear bar, made with healing calendula and organic shea butter, or try our chamomile Baby Foaming Wash.
Your baby has wonderfully soft, smooth skin, but the barrier is not fully developed. Baby skin both absorbs and loses moisture more quickly than adult skin, so it needs regular moisturizer. Gently applying a butter or balmimmediately after the bath will help lock in moisture, ensuring the skin is fully air or towel dried first.
There are numerous reasons and causes for baby rashes, eczema and other skin related issues. Don’t worry mama. You didn’t do anything wrong. It’s very common and usually can clear up fairly quickly. Consult your doctor to determine the source of the problem.
Avoiding harsh chemicals that dry out the skin and artificial fragrances are a great preventative measure. The Baby Bum Balm is a favourite amongst the Rocky community has been known to help prevent rashes (not just on the tush), soothe cradle cap and dry skin. It is petroleum-free and works for cloth diapers as well.
That delicate skin makes babies and toddlers more vulnerable to sun damage and the chemicals that they're made with. For babies younger than six months, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies should be kept out of direct sunlight until they’re six months old. When you take your baby out in the daytime, cover and protect skin with a hat, tightly woven and long-sleeved clothing, sunglasses, and a natural sunscreenwith UVA and UVB protection*.
*If you plan on using sunscreen on babies under six 6 months of age, Health Canada recommends consulting a doctor first.
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