A Newborn baby's skin is very delicate, and so is the forming immune system. Chemicals, fragrances, clothing dyes, detergents can cause skin irritation, dryness and rashes. This might sound like a worry, but there many things you can do to protect your baby from skin problems.
Don't use baby products in the first month as the immune system is still developing. If you have a family history of skin problems, allergies, or asthma, it's especially important to protect your baby's immune system and skin from allergens.
Always wash your baby's new clothing before it's worn. Use baby only laundry detergents that are completely fragrance and dye-free. Wash clothes, bedding, and blankets separately from the regular family laundry and always give everything an extra rinse.
There is not need to bathe your baby frequently. Frequent bathing actually removes the natural oils that protect baby's delicate skin. Newborns don't get very dirty, except for drool and diaper changes, so for the first month or so, a sponge bath a few times a week will keep your baby more than clean. For regular cleaning of baby's mouth and diaper area use a little warm water and cleanser.
When baby has an allergic reaction, the result can be a rash. Rashes under the diaper may be eczema and not a diaper rash. An allergy to dyes in the diapers themselves can cause this reaction so changing to dye-free diapers may be all that's needed to prevent future outbreaks. If it doesn't go away then reduce bathing to once a week, change your baby's skin products and make sure baby wears only soft clothing.
The irritating wetness of a soiled diaper is usually the cause of diaper rash. They can also develop when baby's skin is not properly dried after a bath. Another cuase is sometimes a bacteria or yeast infection, especially for babies who are taking antibiotics.
Most forms of diaper rash don't require medical care. To treat diaper rash and prevent further newborn skin problems:
1. Check diapers many times a day.
2. Change diapers immediately when wet or soiled.
3. Use a mild fragrance-free cleanser or plain water to wash the diaper arear. If the rash causes discomfort when touched, use a squirt bottle to cleanse without rubbing.
4. Use a soft clean cloth, not baby wipes. The perfume or alcohol in many wipes can further irritate and dry baby's skin.
5. Pat baby dry. Don't rub. Let the diaper area air-dry fully before putting on a fresh diaper.
6. Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly - Vaseline - or a protective ointment such as Desitin.
7. Avoid using baby powder. Corn starch-based powders promote yeast growth. Talcum powder may cause lung problems if inhaled.
Giving your newborn a massage is important one-on-one time that conveys your love to your newborn. Research shows that a baby's very survival depends on being touched by others -- as touch triggers hormones, boosts immunity, and helps fight disease. Also, massaged babies are calmer, sleep better, and cry less which is another big benefit.
There's no special technique to massaging a baby. Find a carpeted floor in a warm room. Simply lay baby on a soft blanket or fabric. Get a little baby oil or a gentle lotion. Warm it in your hand. Then gently massage baby's chest and tummy -- using a gentle yet firm touch. Try to make eye contact and talk to your baby. Sing softly. - 15266
Don't use baby products in the first month as the immune system is still developing. If you have a family history of skin problems, allergies, or asthma, it's especially important to protect your baby's immune system and skin from allergens.
Always wash your baby's new clothing before it's worn. Use baby only laundry detergents that are completely fragrance and dye-free. Wash clothes, bedding, and blankets separately from the regular family laundry and always give everything an extra rinse.
There is not need to bathe your baby frequently. Frequent bathing actually removes the natural oils that protect baby's delicate skin. Newborns don't get very dirty, except for drool and diaper changes, so for the first month or so, a sponge bath a few times a week will keep your baby more than clean. For regular cleaning of baby's mouth and diaper area use a little warm water and cleanser.
When baby has an allergic reaction, the result can be a rash. Rashes under the diaper may be eczema and not a diaper rash. An allergy to dyes in the diapers themselves can cause this reaction so changing to dye-free diapers may be all that's needed to prevent future outbreaks. If it doesn't go away then reduce bathing to once a week, change your baby's skin products and make sure baby wears only soft clothing.
The irritating wetness of a soiled diaper is usually the cause of diaper rash. They can also develop when baby's skin is not properly dried after a bath. Another cuase is sometimes a bacteria or yeast infection, especially for babies who are taking antibiotics.
Most forms of diaper rash don't require medical care. To treat diaper rash and prevent further newborn skin problems:
1. Check diapers many times a day.
2. Change diapers immediately when wet or soiled.
3. Use a mild fragrance-free cleanser or plain water to wash the diaper arear. If the rash causes discomfort when touched, use a squirt bottle to cleanse without rubbing.
4. Use a soft clean cloth, not baby wipes. The perfume or alcohol in many wipes can further irritate and dry baby's skin.
5. Pat baby dry. Don't rub. Let the diaper area air-dry fully before putting on a fresh diaper.
6. Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly - Vaseline - or a protective ointment such as Desitin.
7. Avoid using baby powder. Corn starch-based powders promote yeast growth. Talcum powder may cause lung problems if inhaled.
Giving your newborn a massage is important one-on-one time that conveys your love to your newborn. Research shows that a baby's very survival depends on being touched by others -- as touch triggers hormones, boosts immunity, and helps fight disease. Also, massaged babies are calmer, sleep better, and cry less which is another big benefit.
There's no special technique to massaging a baby. Find a carpeted floor in a warm room. Simply lay baby on a soft blanket or fabric. Get a little baby oil or a gentle lotion. Warm it in your hand. Then gently massage baby's chest and tummy -- using a gentle yet firm touch. Try to make eye contact and talk to your baby. Sing softly. - 15266
About the Author:
About the author: Samantha E. Ford has been providing proven baby care products that always come with outstanding customer service. Come and see the recommended and proven baby care system that will care perfectly for your baby's skin.
