5 Essential tips for taking care of your baby's skin

Your baby’s skin is very soft and you want to keep it that way for as long as possible. But since newborn skin is very sensitive, you need to take special care of it.

Click 'Next' to check out some tips for taking care of your baby's skin.

1. Watch the diaper area

Babies are prone to rashes in the diaper area, caused by contact with urine and faeces. The acidity of urine leads to red, itchy and painful areas on the skin.

Change diapers often and soon after they are soiled. Avoid using strong detergents when cleaning cloth diapers and use a cream containing zinc oxide to create a barrier between skin surface and dirty diaper.

2. Protection from the sun

UV rays are very damaging to your baby’s skin, so do not expose your newborn direct sunlight until six months old.

When you go outside and it’s sunny, dress your infant in protective clothing — a small hat to shield face and scalp, and long sleeved tops.

Use a stroller with a cover, an umbrella or stand under the shade of a tree. Use sunscreen that is formulated for babies and apply it to areas of exposed skin such as face, hands and neck.

3. Don’t bathe your baby too often

Too much time in the bath can dry out sensitive skin.

Use a mild soap and shampoo and in between baths rub your baby down with a wet washcloth.

4. Wash new baby clothes

Wash new clothes before your baby wears them. You don’t know where those clothes have been or who has been handling them.

5. Prevent chafing

When there is friction between clothing and skin chafing can occur. Avoid letting your baby wear tight clothes or garments that rub against the skin, like rubber pants or straps.

Cleanse, rinse and dry skin thoroughly, then apply cornstarch baby powder, lotion or cream.

Written by

Felicia Chin

AdviceHealthchildrenNewborntipsskincareBaby