Soft, plump, and seemingly perfect, baby skin is in fact quite delicate and just like the epidermis of adults, requires proper care. To fully address its needs and use the right products, we must first understand what makes it so different from ours.
At birth, babies have an immature skin barrier that undergoes a maturation process for months. Highly fragile and vulnerable to outdoor air pollution, your baby’s skin doesn’t reach the first stage of maturity until the age of two. During that time frame, your baby’s skin isn’t quite able to retain the proper level of moisture needed for cells to function as they must.
While babies may exhibit a variety of skin conditions, there are only three main skin types that are common to babies of all ethnicities. Let’s take a closer look to learn how to best care for our little bundle of joy’s skin.
Baby Normal Skin
Baby’s normal skin is soft, supple, and silky to the touch. It has no irregularities or obvious signs of dryness or sensitivity.
FP caring tips:
It’s important to prevent the skin from getting dry and irritated. This may include avoiding exposure to irritants such as fragrance and dyes (especially in the first few months of baby’s life). Apply oil-based products during or after bath, or during a diaper change, to help retain moisture.
Baby Dry Skin
Dry infant skin tends to peel, is rough to the touch, and not as soft. Characterized by a deficient lipid barrier, this baby skin type is more dehydrated than normal skin and requires special attention.
FP caring tips:
Make sure that the skin stays moisturized with lotion to maintain oil on the surface and reduce water evaporation. Avoid wiping with rough fabrics and instead gently pat baby’s skin after a bath (a short bath that is!), And use materials that are soft to the skin for diaper changes.
Baby Very Sensitive Skin
Baby’s very sensitive skin is more fragile and vulnerable. It has a tendency to redden easily in response to daily stresses (wind, soap, friction of clothes, and more). For baby that means feelings of discomfort (tingling and tightness sensations) and bouts of crankiness.
FP caring tips:
Avoid exposing the skin to chemical irritants such as dyes and harsh detergents, making this a rule for anything that could touch baby’s skin — that means bedding, blankets, towels, and even your own clothes. Dress baby in soft and loose-fitting garments, with leave-on and irritant-free products that act as protective layers. Very sensitive skin will also appreciate skin-to-skin contact, which will be soothing and relaxing for all involved.