Newborns Need Natural Skin Care

There are many skin care products that are being marketed as essential for your newborn. But it might surprise you to know that some experts believe that these baby skin care products may actually do more harm than good. The reason for this is the chemical ingredients they often contain.

You want to avoid exposing your baby to chemicals as long as possible. Leave your baby's skin to develop unimpeded. This way, skin problems and irritations like allergies or eczema aren't as likely to show up.

Your baby needs only the simplest of skin care. So keep away from any and all chemical laden products in your baby's first month. In your baby's first month all that's necessary for bathing is some warm water and a soft cloth. You can comb thick hair with a baby comb to get it clean during bath time.

Nature Knows Best

Natural is the best way to go when approaching baby skin care. Natural care means not interfering with your baby's skin as much as possible.

When your baby is born you may notice a white substance on your baby's skin that is sticky in texture. This is a natural moisturizer so don’t wipe it away. It should be allowed to penetrate the skin on its own.

If your baby is premature then it is even more important that you hold back on using any baby care products. This is because a premature baby’s skin is even more delicate than other babies. The best time to start skin care for your premature baby is after the exact due date of your baby.

Cleaning the Cord Area

Be sure to keep the region around the cord clean and dry until it falls off. You don't have to use lotion and powder on it. If the area gets dirty simply use a soft cloth and water to wipe it clean before patting dry.

If your baby is premature or sick then the skin care routine you should follow for keeping the cord clean may be different. You may need to use antiseptic wipes in the area to help prevent infection. Your pediatrician can help you out with advice on caring for the skin of a sick or premature baby.

Start using baby wipes only after your baby is a month old. Choose baby wipes that don't contain alcohol and are unscented. They should be as mild as possible. Moisturizers containing emollients are the best choice for a newborn.