The arrival of a new family member brings love and joy, but also immense responsibility. Parents face countless questions and challenges and one of the most important is the area of caring for their baby's skin. Proper care is by far the best that we can extract from nature and avoiding the traps of harmful chemicals that have occupied today's market is certainly one of the smarter decisions.
The baby's skin plays a key role in protecting her from external harmful influences. Unlike adult skin, it is 30% thinner which increases sensitivity. Due to the rapid absorption of the baby's skin reactions may be more intense. Chemicals from their products enter the bloodstream much faster and the supply of suitable products on the market is limited.
Cosmetic products hide potential dangers. Ingredients such as sulfates, formaldehyde, phthalates, parabens, artificial colors and fragrances can potentially cause skin problems and thus affect the overall health of the baby. Products based on plants such as chamomile, aloe vera and calendula are gentle and less likely to cause allergic reactions..Sastojci poput sulfata, formaldehida, ftalata, parabena, veštačkih boja i mirisa potencijalni mogu biti izazivači problema na koži, a samim tim uticati na celokupno zdravlje bebe. Proizvodi na bazi biljaka poput kamilice, aloe vere i nevena su nežni i veća je verovatnoća da neće izazvati alergijske reakcije.
It is important to note that in babies, whose bodies are developing, even the smallest amounts can cause serious consequences, so let's choose those that guarantee safety and quality. Proper care is not only a responsibility towards the health of our youngest but a ritual of love.
The most important characteristics of baby skin:
- Because the baby's skin is thinža bebe t can lose moisture much faster and become dry, so it constantly needs hydration on the surface layer. The skin is more sensitive, and therefore more prone to inflammation and irritation.
- The upper layer is on average about 30% thinner than the skin of adults.
- Baby's protective melanin is not fully developed, so they must be 100% protected from UV rays, heat and drying.
- Substances from baby cosmetics are quickly absorbed upon contact with the baby's skin.
- It is more sensitive to the effects of chemical ingredients from baby cosmetics.
- Sun damage occurs faster than in older children.
- In the winter months, the skin is more sensitive to the cold, since it is thinner and the blood vessels are insufficiently developed.
- A baby's skin is more delicate and needs greater protection from bacteria, allergens, particles from the air, dust, pollen, weather etc.
Changes in the baby's skin due to inadequate care:
- Eczema can appear most often on the face, in the form of a red itchy rash. Atopic dermatitis, allergies or genetic predisposition are some of the causes.
- Small pimples and white dots on the face are a common occurrence. Do not touch them, proper cleaning and the use of gentle creams can help maintain a healthy complexion.
- Diaper rash occurs on the diaper region and groin area. The reasons can be numerous, from irritations caused by tight diapers, long-term humidity, the type of diaper that does not suit the baby, the use of wet wipes or strong laundry detergents.
- Seborrheic dermatitis causes flaking of the scalp. It should be emphasized that this is not the result of inadequate care, but a natural phenomenon that disappears over time.
- Babies are born with naturally dry skin that adapts over time. Regular hydration can help maintain softer skin.
Selection of baby care products:
- Shampoos for babies - Mild and pH neutral, gentle on the eyes, without sulfates, artificial fragrances and other chemical ingredients that can irritate.
- Bubbly baby baths - Natural, dermatologically tested.
- Lotions, milks and creams - Gentle and on a natural basis, in order to preserve the natural hydration of the skin, prevent drying and flaking.
- Creams for the diaper area - provide a fatty protective film, based on a plant base, a true ally in preserving the baby's soft skin.
- Anti-itch creams - Thick and greasy, often based on petroleum jelly or zinc oxide, providing quick relief and preventing irritation from spreading.
- Baby oil - In addition to hydration, oils are also used for gentle massage, bringing calmness and relaxation to the baby.
- Proper selection of diapers - Given that diapers are the ones that come into direct contact with the baby, it is crucial to choose those that are gentle on the skin, dermatologically tested and with a high degree of absorption.
Bathing a baby is a hygienic act, a special moment of bonding and tenderness:
- Water temperature - between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius, because babies will enjoy a warm bath the most, so it is important to check the water temperature before you start. Warm water will relax the baby and have a soothing effect on her.
- Mild shampoo and body wash
- Light massages.
- Safety and comfort - Avoid stressful situations during bathing. Take your time and create a peaceful atmosphere.
Baby skin care in summer:
- Wear cotton, light and comfortable clothing,
- Cool the baby down with fresh water more often and do not overdress her too much, the skin should remain dry so that it can breathe freely,
- Provide the child with a light hat that will protect the face from direct exposure to the sun.
- Be careful when going outside with your baby and never expose she to direct sunlight. Use high-quality and natural high-protection products from the sun, which are suitable for the delicate and sensitive baby's skin.
- Humidity and summer heat are dangerous, so avoid being outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.,
- If a child develops diaper rash or a rash on the neck, under the armpits, under the chin, on the legs or on the folds behind the knees, be sure to change their wardrobe more often, cool it down so that she does not sweat and apply anti-itch creams.
Baby skin care in winter
- Moisturizing and nourishing milks for baby skin care or lotions - apply them after bathing and before going for a walk. Moisturizing and greasy creams are necessary and very useful for rashes, diaper rash or dandruff problems.
- Reduce bathing the baby to 5 to 10 minutes.
In winter, the skin is naturally sensitive to weather conditions due to low temperatures, cold and harsh air, as well as the winter wind, so it is less able to preserve its natural moisture, which on the other hand affects the increased drying of the skin. The lips and skin around the lips, as well as the cheeks, are the most exposed. On the other hand, dry air in overheated rooms also leads to drying of the skin, which can cause itching, flaking, and sometimes eczema. Dress your baby moderately and don't make her too warm. Do not overheat the room where the baby is staying due to dry air.