Winter care for baby skin
by Dr Lina Malek
Your baby may be susceptible to skin problems as they grow, be it due to scrapes, bruises, irritation, rashes or other factors. It can often be a distressing time for your child and you. Some of the most common childhood skin problems are described below:
Dry skin Adults are not the only ones who suffer from dry skin as it can also affect children, especially when the weather is very cold. Try your best not to use soaps that are fragrant as these may be too harsh for your childs skin and could cause dryness. Excessive scrubbing can also damage delicate skin. Make sure to dry your childs face properly after washing, and you may also wish to apply a gentle cream on their body to keep their skin moisturised.
Chapped skin Your child may get chapped skin, but there are many creams available to combat this problem. There are lotions available to keep your childs skin moisturised and prevent chapping.
Itchy skin Many children suffer from itchy skin, especially if they have eczema. Your child could be more prone to itchy skin during the winter months. It is often helpful to give your child regular baths and keep her or his skin well moisturised.
Broken skin Your childs skin can sometimes crack and this can be quite painful. You may find cracks on your childs feet or hands and this can often be a result of exposure to cold weather or frostbite.
Dealing with your childs skin problems
Many children can develop bruises, scrapes and other minor skin irritations due to falls or accidents. Sometimes, your childrens diet can play a part in causing a rash and it is important to monitor their menu.
Tips for looking after your babys skin
Try to use only baby specific creams which are fragrance free to avoid risk of irritation.
Monitor your babys diet. If they develop a rash, then you can eliminate foods which they may be allergic to.
Try to protect your child from the sun by using sun cream of a high level. Protecting your child from the sun is important as it reduces the risk of skin cancer later in life.
Make sure your children wash their hands properly with soap to fight against bacteria, which could lead to infections.
If your child has a fall and bruises, use ice to reduce swelling or apply pressure if there is bleeding. Never put heated pain relief on your child as this could make things worse.
If your child has a burn, leave the area uncovered to allow air to circulate. It is best to seek medical advice immediately.
Some children develop fungal skin infections such as ringworm. If your child suffers from ringworm, which is scaly red patches on their skin, it is best to visit the doctor and get anti-fungal treatment.
Keeping your childs skin moisturised
It is important to keep your childs skin well moisturised to prevent dryness. You should never use harsh adult moisturisers on your childs skin _ it is best to use products specifically made for children. You could try the following things to keep your childs skin well moisturised:
Baby massage After your child has a bath, make sure they are thoroughly dried, after which you can apply some baby cream and massage your babys skin.
Dry skin cream If you notice your baby has dry skin, apply a baby cream immediately to the area and leave it well moisturised to prevent the condition from worsening.
Baby oil You can occasionally apply baby oil to your childs skin to ensure moist and soft skin.
Top natural ingredients in baby skin products
The best baby skincare products are likely to contain the following natural ingredients:
Avocado oil This is a natural product which can easily absorb into your babys skin. It is good for the skin and scalp. Avocado oil contains key vitamins like A, D and E.
Vitamin E This works as a powerful antioxidant which protects the skin from inflammation and helps to keep your babys skin well hydrated.
Green tea An excellent antioxidant which can prevent bacterial growth on the skin.
The writer is a consultant dermatologist at the Al Manar Hospital.
