Babies are born with the purest and cleanest skin known to humans. But it’s also the most delicate. Just about everything we put on their fragile skin comes with a risk of irritation. To avoid causing our babies any discomfort, carefully choosing the products they come in contact with is crucial.
Just as we believe natural and organic is the only way to go for ourselves, this goes double for babies. Too many risks come with synthetic chemicals to trust these products for our little ones. That’s why we created this handy guide. If you need some guidance on how to care for your baby’s skin and what you should avoid to keep them safe, follow the simple tips below.
Best Baby Skin Care Tips
1. Use Natural Baby Skin Care Products
Creating a lifestyle free of harmful chemicals and synthetic ingredients provides so many benefits for our skin, health and happiness. It’s even more important to take extra special care of our precious little ones by using the purest and safest natural products we can find. Baby’s skin is more delicate and vulnerable than our own, so we need to know the best ways to protect it from anything that has the ability to cause harm.
Here’s why natural is best for your baby’s skin:
Baby’s Skin Is More Permeable
Baby skin is thin, delicate and more permeable than adults’ skin. Many synthetic chemicals have known health risks like hormone disruption and carcinogenic properties, and that’s the last thing you want on your baby’s highly absorbent skin.
Baby’s Skin Gets Dry More Easily
Since their skin is more permeable, it has a harder time retaining moisture. Water tends to escape faster, leaving baby’s skin dry and prone to flaking or peeling. Products with cheap synthetic ingredients aren’t able to protect baby skin from dryness and will likely make the problem worse.
Baby’s Skin Is More Reactive
Not only are babies more prone to infections and illnesses, but their skin is more susceptible to reactions and adverse effects than adult skin. Synthetic chemicals tend to be harsher than natural substances. Some natural products can cause reactions too, so it’s important to limit ingredients when you can. That way, it will be easier to know what might be causing a reaction.
What ingredients should you avoid?
- Sulfates
- Synthetic dyes
- Parabens
- Fragrance
- Phthalates
- Formaldehyde
- Propylene Glycol
- Chemical sunscreens
- Petroleum-based products
2. Bathe 2-3 Times Per Week
Bath time is a happy bonding time between you and your baby. But too much isn’t a good thing. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the ideal frequency to bathe your little one is 2-3 times per week. Too many baths can cause a baby’s skin to dry out and become irritated. Luckily, babies rarely get sweaty or dirty, so they don’t need baths every day.
Plus, always use lukewarm water that is pleasing to the touch and not too hot. And use a super soft washcloth and avoid rubbing the skin too harshly. Washing without a cloth may be necessary if your baby's skin is already irritated or dry.
3. Moisturize Your Baby’s Skin
Keeping your baby’s skin hydrated is essential since it's prone to dryness. However, you still want to be careful not to overdue applying the moisturizer. Moisturize dry areas on your baby’s skin when needed with an all-natural lotion that will add moisture to their skin and help seal it in.
It’s best to use a lotion made with mild plant oils and soothing herbs that have the power to calm redness. The fewer ingredients, the better to reduce the risk of irritation. Apply moisturizer after a bath or anytime you notice dryness.
Use products specifically made for babies to ensure the formula will be the most gentle option. Products made for adults can be too harsh.
4. Protect Them From The Sun
The sun feels delighful on our skin, but we know we must limit our exposure to keep our skin and ourselves safe. Babies are especially vulnerable to the dangers of the sun’s UV rays. Infants less than 6 months old should be kept out of the sun whenever possible. Finding or creating shade for them is a great way to protect them and allow them to be safe outdoors. Covering them up with lightweight clothing is another option when you can’t find shade.
According to the FDA, sunscreen is safe to use on a baby under 6 months old, but only if you use mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide. An all-natural product made with non-nano zinc oxide (like ours!) is the best choice to prevent sun damage and the absorption of particles. An SPF of at least 15 is recommended.
And always keep your baby cool and hydrated when it’s sunny and hot!
5. Use Irritant-Free Laundry Detergent
There’s nothing cuter than a well-dressed baby. At least until they soil them with food stains and spit up. What you use to wash your baby’s clothes can make a big difference in the health of their skin.
You can look for detergents made just for baby clothes, but you might find that they don’t do a great job removing stains. As an alternative that might work better, it’s safe to use the same detergent you would use for your clothes - keeping in mind that the more natural, the better. Hypoallergenic, plant-based detergents without any fragrance or dyes work well.
Avoid using bleach, brightening agents or fabric softeners that contain fragrances or dyes. Try a wool dryer ball to soften your baby’s clothes for the most chemical-free option.
Wrapping It Up…
We go to great lengths for our children, and protecting their skin from the elements and toxic chemicals is priority number one. You can help keep your baby’s skin free from skin conditions, dryness and irritation by following the simple tips above. As the warmer weather approaches, there’s nothing like being prepared so you and your baby can genuinely enjoy it!