After baby arrives
Keep sensitive skin soft
As a mum or dad you naturally devote a lot of energy to keeping baby happy and healthy. So sensitive skin and problems like eczema can leave parents, especially new ones, feeling anxious and stressed.
According a recent survey by Comfort Pure, 89% of parents are concerned about their baby's sensitive skin - but 67% have no idea why baby's skin is so vulnerable.
Indy Rihal from the British Skin Foundation explains: "Babies' skin begins thin and delicate and thickens as the baby grows older. It is physically fragile and prone to irritation."
So you need to take special care. Indy recommends:
- Keep the skin clean by bathing baby regularly (though you don't necessarily need to do this every day, especially when baby's very young)
- Choose clothes that are comfortable and don't cause overheating and friction. Natural fibres, like cotton, allow the skin to breathe.
- Never leave a wet or dirty nappy on for longer than necessary. Doing so can cause nappy rash and irritate the skin.
- Baby wipes are safe, but if they seem to irritate your baby's skin, stop using them.
It's a good idea to choose any products you use on your baby's skin, clothes or linen carefully, selecting ones specially designed for babies' sensitive skin where possible.
Including a fabric conditioner in your clothes wash can soften the scratchy fibres of fabrics leaving clothes feeling softer against sensitive skin.
Comfort Pure fabric conditioner is specially designed for your baby's delicate skin. It's hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, plus its skincare research is validated by the British Skin Foundation.
Skin conditions
While all babies have sensitive skin, other skin problems like eczema are also common. Eczema is characterised by dry, itchy, red and cracked skin.
Most babies grow out of eczema by the time they are 12 months old, but if you are concerned about your baby's eczema you should visit your GP. There are also a few things you can do at home that might help, as Indy Rihal of the British Skin Foundation explains:
- Harsh soaps and cleansers can dry out baby's skin, making it more prone to eczema
- If your baby has eczema, it's important to apply an emollient (moisturiser) that is fragrance-free to avoid irritation.
- If your baby has dry skin, use unperfumed emollients (moisturisers) at bathtime
- Keep your home dust-free and well ventilated
- Wool keeps the body warm, but can irritate some children's skin, especially those with eczema. It is best to wear a light cotton garment underneath.