Skincare in children especially for newborns and infants needs special attention since their skin is soft and very thin. The skin of a newborn is 40-60 times thinner than an adult, comparatively less hydrated, and has a less natural moisturizing factor. Toddlers and young kids are constantly exposed to high levels of dirt and germs since they play in open areas, and meet different people in schools and playgroups. About 30% of children in any pediatric OPD need dermatological attention.
This blog will cover the skincare regimen for newborns and kids
The neonates take some time to adapt to the environment external to the safe cocoon of a mother’s womb. Their skin is very thin and needs extra care.
Contrary to what is typically followed in Indian society, WHO recommends that the first bath should be delayed until 24 hours after birth. It should be a short warm bath for a maximum of 10 minutes. After bathing, the baby should be gently dried from head to foot using a dry warm towel.
These days using diapers is very common instead of cotton nappies. The diaper area is exposed to excessive moisture which promotes infection. Hence, it should always be kept dry. Frequent changing of the diaper is recommended and the area should be gently cleaned with a mild cleanser.
Avoid skincare products for a newborn with the following ingredients.
- Fragrance: Fragrant products can cause allergies, dermatitis, respiratory problems
- Parabens: Used as preservatives, paraben based products can cause irritations and allergies
- Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is added to prevent bacterial growth, but it is indicated to cause allergies and irritation
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)/Sodium Laureth sulfate: It is found in many shampoos and body washes. Avoid it, please.
- Synthetic Dyes: It is found in many beauty products and can trigger allergies
- Propylene glycol: It is a key component of many moisturizers and sunscreens and is known to cause dermatitis and hives
Children need special love and care. So does their skin which needs special attention. As a thumb rule, use natural products for them and follow a daily regimen that will help in blossoming their skin.
Cleansing
Cleansing is the first step for any skincare routine, be it for adults or children. Washing with water may remove visible dirt, but using a gentle natural and fragrance-free cleanser with a neutral ph is the best way of removing grime which may harbor bacteria.
Moisturizing
Once cleaned, pat dry and moisturize to prevent dryness. Use a gentle and kid-friendly moisturizer daily.
Sunscreen
Kids love playing outdoors. Sun-related skin damage is part and parcel of outdoor activities. Sunscreens should be introduced at a young age to prevent the harmful effects of the sun on the delicate skin of your young ones. It is a known fact that even on any cloudy day about 80% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays (UVA and UVB) can pass through the cover of clouds and harm your skin. Therefore, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or above is recommended, but do check for the ingredients to ensure that you buy a safe product for your little one.
Keep your children safe. If you have any questions regarding the skin care of your young shining stars, do not hesitate to call us and fix an appointment at Alovia Clinic. It will be our great pleasure to help you and guide you in taking the best care of your child’s skin.