Learning about your new baby: How to care for their soft skin
The soft skin of your new bundle of joy is fun to nuzzle into, but it's incredibly delicate too. In this article, Margo Marrone, Co-Founder of The Organic Pharmacy, shares her top tips to help you care for your new baby's sensitive skin.
All that any new parent wants to do is take care of their little one. One of the best ways you can do this is by taking good care of their skin. Although their skin has a reputation for being soft and flawless, it's actually incredibly sensitive. In fact, your baby's skin is 30% thinner than yours (PubMed). Fortunately, there are plenty of simple ways to look after your little one's skin, and bond with them at the same time.
The baby skincare basics
Taking care of a new baby is seriously overwhelming. So, to start with, let's just look at the basics of baby skincare.
Bathing your new baby
Giving your newborn a bath is one of the best memories you'll make with them. Seeing their reaction to the water is priceless! But as fun as it is, it isn't something that you need to do every day. Their thin skin can dry out after too many baths. On the days when you don't bathe them, use a clean cloth and a bowl of warm water to wipe them over, and pat them dry.
When bathing them, make sure that the room is a comfortable temperature. Start by running cool water and then add the hot, and use your elbow to check the bath is warm enough. When the bath is ready, support your baby's neck and shoulders with one hand, and use the other to gently rub the skin with a clean cloth, remembering to get inside their skin folds. Avoid using bath products until they reach six weeks.
Nappy changes
The best way to protect your baby's skin is by keeping it clean, so it's important to change their nappy as soon as it gets dirty. Always make sure to wipe them gently with either cotton wool and water or fragrance-free baby wipes. Protect them from nappy rash by applying barrier cream and waiting for it to air-dry, before applying a new nappy.
The right clothing
When you have the fun task of choosing outfits and sleepwear for your little one, opt for clothes made out of natural and organic breathable materials. Organic baby sleeping bags are a great choice for keeping your baby cosy as they sleep, whilst also being gentle on their delicate skin.
Not only are natural materials better for the environment, but they're often far more comfortable too. Plus, chemical-free clothes are made to last, so you don't have to worry about how many times they go through the wash!
When washing your baby's clothes (which it might feel like you're doing every hour of the day), use organic, natural detergents to prevent a potential flare-up. Also, make sure to cover your baby's skin when they spend time outside, as their skin shouldn't be exposed to direct sunlight until they're at least six months old.
Common baby skin issues
Skin issues are relatively common in new babies, so don't be alarmed if you spot something you weren't expecting. The chances are that it's one of the following mild skin conditions, but never be afraid to seek medical help if you have any worries about your little one.
Nappy rash
The tell-tale sign of a nappy rash is patchy red and inflamed skin around a baby's bottom, genitals, and sometimes their thighs. It's often brought on by staying in a damp nappy for too long. To get rid of it, keep the baby's skin clean and dry, and apply barrier cream to prevent it from recurring. Fortunately, it often goes away on its own after four to five days.
Dry skin
Although baby's skin often feels very soft, it can easily get dry as it’s so thin. To keep their skin soft and hydrated, apply baby moisturising lotion after their bath to lock in the moisture.
Eczema
Baby eczema often shows up on the cheeks, but it can affect any part of the body. The rash will usually be a red, brown, or purplish shade. Like with regular dry skin, apply an unscented moisturising lotion and it should start to clear up.
Baby acne
I bet this one took you by surprise! But it’s actually incredibly common, and just caused by hormones. Wash the affected skin a couple of times a day with water, and it should go away in a few days.
Finding the right products
When buying skincare products for your little one, you should always go natural. Fragranced products that are filled with harsh chemicals can irritate their sensitive skin and leave them with a rash. Always use products that are made specifically for babies, as their skin cannot handle the chemicals in adult products. Make sure to avoid any products containing artificial colourants, parabens, phthalates, and sulphates.
The importance of skin-to-skin contact
Caring for your baby's skin isn't just protecting their health: it's helping your bond grow stronger too. When you cuddle them when they start to cry and tickle them to make them laugh, you're communicating your love for them through touch. Spending time skin-to-skin with your bundle of joy allows you to learn their signals too, which will help you recognise when they're feeling uncomfortable.
A great way to get more skin-to-skin contact with your baby is by giving them massages. This will strengthen your bond, help the baby relax, and possibly even benefit your little one's physical health. Use a natural, baby-friendly massage oil and gently massage them, starting at the toes and ending at the neck. Once your baby has had enough, finish your massage session with a cuddle to strengthen your bond even more.
Gentle Support
At The Little Green Sheep we offer natural and organic solutions to your little one’s bedtimes, all while protecting their delicate skin with the use of natural materials. All the ZZZs, without the nasties. Shop our organic bedding collection, as well as our range of natural mattresses today.
