How to Care for Your Baby's Sensitive Skin: A Simple Daily Routine
Baby skin may be famously soft, but it can also be especially delicate. Dry patches, peeling and occasional irritation can all show up as your little one’s skin adjusts during their first year.
A simple, gentle skincare routine can help protect their skin without adding too many products into the mix. When trying a product for the first time, always perform a patch test on a small area of the baby’s skin.
Key Takeaways:
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Not every newborn needs lotion, but dry or peeling patches benefit from a fragrance-free moisturizer applied after the bath
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Bathe a few times a week in warm (not hot) water; choose fragrance-free, dye-free products made for sensitive skin
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See your pediatrician for persistent or severe rashes.
Does your baby need lotion, and when can you start?
Not every newborn needs lotion right away. But if you notice dry or peeling areas, a baby-friendly moisturizer can help keep skin feeling soft and comfortable.
Moisturizing after bath time can be especially helpful because it helps hold onto moisture already in the skin. For best results, gently pat your baby dry and apply moisturizer while their skin is still slightly damp.
When choosing a baby lotion, look for a formula that is:
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Fragrance-free
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Made for delicate or sensitive skin
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Gentle enough for regular use
Babo Botanicals’ Sensitive Baby collection is made for delicate baby skin and includes gentle, pediatrician-tested care for an easy addition to your baby’s everyday skincare routine.
How often should you bathe a baby with sensitive skin?
More baths don’t necessarily mean happier skin. Bathing too frequently or using very warm water can contribute to dryness by removing some of the skin’s natural oils.
A few simple habits can help:
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Bathe baby a few times per week rather than every day.
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Use warm (not hot) water.
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Choose gentle cleansers designed specifically for babies.
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Gently pat skin dry instead of rubbing.
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Follow with a fragrance-free moisturizer when skin needs extra hydration.
Between baths, you can spot-clean areas that tend to collect moisture, including the neck, face, diaper area and those adorable little skin folds.
Less can be more for sensitive skin
When it comes to caring for sensitive baby skin, a complicated routine isn’t necessary. Gentle cleansing, regular moisturizing when needed and choosing products thoughtfully can go a long way.
If your baby develops a persistent or severe rash, cracked or bleeding skin, or another skin change that concerns you, check in with your pediatrician rather than trying to treat it at home.