Tips for Infant Skin Care

We all know that a newborn’s skin is delicate and needs special care. Just like adults, even infant skin may not be perfect. Many newborns are prone to skin irritations due to various common skin conditions. In this blog let us take a look at common skin problems in newborns and discuss a few tips to prevent these conditions.

Common skin problems

1. Eczema: Eczema appears as a red, itchy rash mostly on baby’s face and scalp. Usually it doesn’t appear for the first month or two. It could be prevented if you follow a few simple tips:
   1. Minimize the use of soap and don’t stretch the bath time for more than 5 minutes.
   2. Try to use only soft clothing, preferably cotton clothes for your newborn.
   3. Limit the use of scented skin care products for baby. Always check with your pediatrician before using lotions or creams to treat eczema.
2.  Diaper Rash: Most new mothers find it difficult to prevent diaper rash in their babies. It is often caused due to wet or soiled diapers. It can also occur if baby’s skin is not dried properly after bath. Most diaper rashes don’t require medical care. To prevent diaper rash you can follow these tips:
   1. Check diapers frequently and change immediately if found wet or soiled.
   2. Wash diaper area with water or use non-perfumed wipes to clean the area thoroughly.
   3. Let the diaper area air-dry before getting your baby into a new diaper.
   4. See your pediatrician of the rash doesn’t clear up in 2-3 days.
3. Baby Acne: You may notice pimples on baby’s nose or cheeks but these usually clear up on their own. If you see little white bumps it may be a condition known as Milia caused by oil glands blocked by skin flakes. Skin care for milia is easy as baby’s glands open up over a few days or weeks, the bumps disappear.
4. Irritated Skin: If you see small red bumps on your baby’s skin it might be caused due to heat. It usually appears on the neck, armpits or skin folds of your baby, following these tips may prove helpful:
   1. Avoid making your baby wear tight fitted clothes, it might cause more irritation.
   2. If it flares-up consult your pediatrician before using over-the-counter medicines.

Ensuring the health and well-being of your baby is of utmost importance, and we are here to provide you with the best possible care. If you observe any other skin conditions in your baby, such as rashes or irritation, please do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experienced pediatrician at Dr. Sunny Medical Centre.