Chilly weather can be really tough on your baby's delicate skin. Something as seemingly harmless as a morning stroll can result in chapped skin, redness, even eczema, if your baby is prone to it. Fortunately, there are ways to prep them for the season. We spoke with pediatrician Dr. Tanya Altmann, who provided us with some useful tips!
More from MamásLatinas: The key to baby's healthy skin is bathing less
Everyone's skin is prone to dryness or chapping during the winter, but this is especially the case for babies. "They have very similar problems as adults, however everything is a bit more extreme because their skin is a lot more sensitive," says Dr. Altmann. "So for instance if a baby is going outside, they might experience cracked, chapped cheeks." Apparently they also lose moisture more easily than adults.
"When babies are being bathed, their skin loses moisture five times more quickly than an adult," adds Dr. Altmann. "So it's really important that when you're choosing a wash, that you go for one that is created specifically for a baby's sensitive skin.
Caring for your baby's skin doesn't just boil down to a good moisture. It starts from the bath and even to their clothing detergent. Here's a look at a few things to do this winter to keep their skin baby soft and protected from the brutal cold.
To prevent dry patches you want to switch up their cleanser.
"The most important thing is to use a cleanser that’s really hydrating, super mild, and won’t break down the skin lipids," says Dr. Altmann. "Because baby’s skin lipids are a lot more fragile, you want to use a product that’s specifically designed to baby's skin and is going to really lock in the moisture without irritating." Use a tear-free gentle cleanser; brands like CeraVe and Baby Dove are good bets.
Use massage lotion to help smooth our dry patches.
"I recommend using a gentle lotion and really massaging it into their skin to help smooth out any dry patches they might have," says Dr. Altmann. "The best time to put lotion on is within a few minutes of getting out of the bath, to really lock the moisture in."
Don’t be afraid to use natural oils.
Dr. Altmann recommends organic coconut oil for added moisture. It’s always easy on sensitive baby skin. If you’re using an essential oil though, you want to make sure to dilute it before use.
Use a delicate baby shampoo to prevent and treat dry scalp.
A delicate formula that’s designed specifically for baby skin is recommended to not only treat dry scalp but prevent it from reappearing. Apply a few times throughout the week.
Stroller-proof for the weather.
"Skin gets irritated in the winter because you go outside where it’s so cold and then go inside where’s it’s so hot. It’s the same effect on babies," says Dr. Altmann. "The most important thing is to make sure you’re strapping them into a warm stroller. Dress your baby in a lot of layers and try layering blankets over them. Even during the winter, I like to remind parents to put that sunshade down to protect them."
Sunscreen still applies in the winter.
“Years ago they used to say under a certain age you can’t use SPF,” says Dr. Altmann. “That doesn’t really apply anymore. No matter the age, any exposed skin should be protected. I recommend using stroller shades and SPF whenever possible." Look for a chemical-free, zinc oxide baby SPF.
We like BabyGanics Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50 ($10.98).
Stick to non-irritating fabrics.
"Choose breathable fabrics like 100 percent cotton," says Dr. Altmann. "If you’re layering up, make sure the fabric that goes right on baby’s skin is really mild and non-irritating. That way you can had stronger fabrics like a wool sweater on top and not worry about it irritating since the mild fabric is working as barrier." Dr. Altmann also recommends using delicate detergents that are formulated for sensitive skin.
We like Dreft Stage 1: Newborn Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent ($19.94).
