Go Gentle: Caring for a Newborn's skin

A newborn’s skin is much thinner and more sensitive than an adult’s. It is also much more vulnerable and easier to absorb external elements, because the epidermis and dermis layers of a baby’s skin have not yet attached to each other as strongly as an adult’s skin layers have.

Due to its more absorbent nature, harsh substances are easier to latch onto a baby’s skin, making it that much easier for a baby’s skin to be irritated. A baby’s skin does absorb water a lot faster, but loses water faster as well.

1) Moisturise well

A baby’s skin is delicate and may become prone to dryness; so moisturise regularly to keep your baby’s skin well-hydrated and soothed.

2) Do not bathe your baby excessively

Resist the urge to bathe your baby too often, as frequent baths may remove the natural oils that nourish and protect your baby’s skin. A baby does not sweat as much as an adult, and does not typically go through a highly active day, so there isn’t a need for numerous baths.

3) Massage your baby

Babies depend a lot on human touch and gentle care, which is why one of the best ways to connect with your baby is through tender touching. Massage your baby with tiny, gentle strokes especially across the chest and tummy and maintain loving eye contact while you’re doing it. You could even do this while you’re applying moisturiser to your baby’s skin.

4) Use gentle products

Always be mindful of the products that come in contact with your baby’s skin. As your baby’s skin is much more vulnerable, choose products that are mild and gentle. In fact, newborns up to the age of 6 or 12 months may not respond well to skin care products on their skin, so use skin care products that are gentle and recommended by paediatricians. Consult a dermatologist if you are unsure.  Dermatologists and Paediatricians recommend Cetaphil Baby, which is dedicated to expert care for your baby’s delicate skin.