Your baby's delicate skin requires special care. Since sensitive young skin is especially vulnerable to dryness, chapping, chafing and rashes, you'll need to take additional steps to ensure that it's protected.
That protection includes proper care of baby's clothing. Newborns may be susceptible to chemicals found in new clothing; be sure to wash clothes thoroughly before wearing. Since babies' skin can also be irritated by detergents, look for a product that is free of fragrances and dyes. Read the label to ensure that the detergent you choose is safe for sensitive skin.
Frequent bathing can dry out baby's delicate skin. During the first year, a bath two or three times a week is all that's needed. Avoid long baths and hot water, since both can dry out skin. Gently cleanse your baby, paying special attention to skin folds and the diaper area. Soaps can be drying and fragrances may irritate, so look for a soap-free, fragrance-free cleanser. Aquaphor Gentle Wash, which is clinically proven safe and non-irritating for babies' sensitive skin, is a great choice. After bathing, gently pat away excess water with a soft, absorbent towel.
No one can resist a baby's soft, tender skin. To keep it that way, smooth on a moisturizer within three minutes of bathing, to seal in moisture. To avoid potential irritation, avoid moisturizers with fragrances. Eucerin Original Creme and Lotion are ideal moisturizers for delicate skin because they contain no irritating ingredients.
Change your baby's diapers frequently to avoid prolonged contact with irritating wetness. Be sure to wash the diaper area with each diaper change. Wipe baby's bottom from front to back to avoid infection. Allow skin to air dry, or use a soft cloth. Apply a thin layer of ointment to create a barrier between skin and wetness. At the first sign of diaper rash, apply more ointment until the condition clears up. Call your pediatrician if diaper rash doesn't improve, or worsens. Aquaphor Healing Ointment is the #1 pediatrician recommended skin care ointment, ideal not just for preventing and treating diaper rash, but for a variety of other skin care needs.