A baby's skin is, without a doubt, one of the most important and delicate organs in their anatomy. From the moment they are born, parents begin to worry about the health and well-being of this protective layer. In this article, we explain in detail everything you need to know about the key care to keep your baby's skin healthy and protected.
Newborn skin: characteristics and first observations
When a newborn emerges from the womb, he is covered by a whitish substance that health professionals call vernix caseosa. This substance is not only sticky, but also has a protective function and is composed of sebaceous secretions that the baby's body has produced throughout pregnancy. Vernix should not be washed off immediately after birth., since, as many studies indicate, it serves as protection against infections and also helps maintain skin hydration.
The first contact parents have with their baby also has an important impact. Skin-to-skin contact is recommended from the very beginning., something that not only helps the baby's emotional well-being, but is also key to stabilizing their temperature and promoting the development of skin microbiota, a natural barrier that will protect their delicate skin in the future.
Common skin changes in newborns
During the first few weeks of life, it is common to observe certain changes in the baby's skin that can be alarming for parents. These changes are usually benign and are part of the natural process by which the baby's skin adapts to the new world outside the womb.
- Acrocyanosis: It is a bluish coloration on the hands, feet and lips, which is completely normal and disappears within a few days.
- Marbled: Pattern of small, pale reddish spots that appear on the skin due to immaturity of the circulatory system. It disappears naturally.
- Jaundice: A baby's skin and the whites of the eyes may become yellow due to the buildup of bilirubin in the body. In most cases, neonatal jaundice goes away on its own within one to two weeks.
Baby's first skin care
One of the most important cares for a newborn is the first bath. Contrary to what was believed years ago, Nowadays it is recommended to delay the baby's first bath for at least 48 hours.This prolongs the protective effect of vernix caseosa, which acts as a barrier against bacteria and helps maintain skin hydration.
When you finally decide to bathe your baby, make sure to do so in a warm and protected environment, with lukewarm water (around 36-37°C). Make sure the bath is short, between 5 and 10 minutes. Use a neutral soap, preferably Syndet (soap-free), that respects the pH of the baby's skin. Also, Avoid rubbing the skin, as it is very sensitive and can become irritated easily. Instead, gently pat it dry with a cotton towel.
Hydration and daily care of baby's skin
After bathing, it is essential to moisturize the baby's skin. Moisturizing cream should be specific for babies, without perfumes or aggressive ingredients. Ideally, the cream should be applied right after bathing, when there is still some moisture on the skin. This way, the cream can trap water molecules and provide an additional protective barrier. In the case of dry skin or atopic dermatitis, moisturizing should be done daily and more emollient creams should be chosen.
In addition to hydration, there are other factors that must be taken into account that can affect the baby's skin. One of them is the care of the diaper area. Since this area is constantly exposed to moisture and feces, it is an area prone to irritation. Changing diapers frequently, washing with warm water and mild soap, and applying protective creams such as those containing zinc oxide will help prevent annoying diaper rash.
Common skin conditions in babies
Despite the best care, babies can often develop some common skin conditions due to their sensitivity. Some of the most common ones are:
- Diaper rash: Caused by moisture and constant contact with feces and urine. Red, tender areas appear that can progress rapidly if left untreated.
- Cradle cap: Greasy scales that appear on the scalp, but can also affect skin folds. It fades over time and can be treated with mild oils.
- Eczema: Dry, red, scaly, itchy areas. They are usually related to atopic dermatitis and require constant hydration and sometimes prescription corticosteroid creams.
Sun protection for babies
Babies' skin is extremely sensitive to solar radiation. This is because, at birth, their melanin levels are very low, which leaves them unprotected against the effects of UV rays. For this reason, babies under 6 months old should not be exposed to direct sunlight. From that age onwards, and always in moderation, a specific sunscreen for babies with physical filters can be applied. These protectors act as a barrier without adding chemical ingredients that can irritate the skin.
It is important, whenever possible, to avoid direct sun exposure during the first three years of life.. Choose to keep your baby in shaded areas and make sure to cover him or her with light clothing, caps and hats with wide brims to protect his or her head and face.
The importance of a protective barrier for baby's skin
A newborn's skin is constantly developing. One of the keys to its protection is the skin barrier, a layer composed of lipids that helps keep the skin hydrated and healthy. However, this barrier takes years to fully develop, so it requires special care.
During the first years of life, Using gentle, baby-specific products is essential to avoid altering this barrier. and allow the skin to remain healthy. Ideally, avoid products with perfumes, alcohol or preservatives that can interfere with the development of this protective layer.
Using products suitable for baby's skin
There are many baby skin care products on the market, from soaps to moisturizers and lotions. However, not all of them are equally safe for baby's delicate skin. Here are some tips on how to care for your baby:
- Opt for products without fragrances or alcohol.
- Use creams or lotions with natural ingredients, such as chamomile or aloe vera, which soothe and protect the skin without damaging its natural barrier.
- Avoid talcum powder, as it can irritate the baby's airways and does not provide long-term benefits.
For drier areas or those prone to irritation, it is advisable to use emollient creams that restore the skin barrier and keep the skin moisturized for longer.
Skin problems that may appear in the first months
Despite careful care, some babies may develop skin conditions due to their immature skin. Below we discuss some of the most common ones and how they should be treated:
- Neonatal acne: This acne appears due to maternal hormones circulating in the baby's body after birth. It usually disappears on its own after a few weeks.
- Toxic erythema: A harmless rash that usually appears in the first few weeks. It looks like red spots with small dots in the center.
- Cradle cap: It appears on the scalp and other parts of the body, such as the face and neck, but does not require specific treatment. It is enough to wash the area regularly with mild products.
Caring for a newborn's skin is essential due to the high sensitivity it presents in the early stages of life. Maintaining adequate hydration, using specific products for their skin type and avoiding unnecessary exposure to external agents such as the sun or aggressive products are key factors in protecting their health. With time and appropriate care, your baby's skin will become stronger, becoming an increasingly competent barrier against external aggressions.