Here’s What to Do When Your Baby Has Dry Skin

Team AckoFeb 8, 2024

Newborns always face the condition called skin peeling where skin appears to be flaky for few days and when it sheds off then their skin becomes normal. But in almost all the babies there remains the problem of dry skin which becomes more difficult to handle in winters due to dry weather.

What to do when your baby has dry skin: What is dry skin?

When the skin appears to be flaky and it sheds in the form of flakes followed by mild itching in some cases then this is the sign of dry skin. Baby’s skin is more thin and sensitive than yours so dryness occurs on his skin in a more prominent way. This can be treated by using simple ways and tips in daily routine.

What to do when your baby has dry skin: Possible reasons behind dry skin

You should know the reasons behind your baby’s dry skin as it will help you in tackling the situation with ease. Here are some of the reasons:

Exposure to too much of dry air

Whether it is summer or winter, your baby gets exposed to dry air due to the use of AC and heater. Both these appliances rob the moisture of the skin making it appear dry it also dehydrates the body as well. So make sure that you do not expose your baby too much in front of these things.

Longer bath

When you give your baby a bath for a longer period then water takes off the moisture of his skin leaving the skin dry. So you need to cut short the longer bath and go for a quicker one.

Weather woes

In summers and in winters your baby’s skin should be properly covered in order to save it from too much heat and too much dry wind as well. Baby’s skin is very sensitive so it should be protected from these factors.

What to do when your baby has dry skin: Tips to prevent your baby’s skin from dryness

There are many simple ways that can protect your baby’s sensitive and delicate skin. Just take some preventive measures and keep dryness off from your baby’s skin. Here’s what you should do when you notice the dryness on your baby’s skin:

Moisture

The more moisturized and hydrated your baby’s skin is, the more it will be safe from dryness. So just make sure that your baby’s skin is well moisturized immediately after the bath to prevent dryness. Also, keep in mind that you use very mild scented and popular brand of moisturizer for your baby’s delicate skin. Do not go for anything or for the moisturizer that you use regularly for your skin. If you notice more dryness then use moisturizer on your baby’s skin twice in a day to keep it supple and soft.

Humidify

In summers and in the winters, your baby gets exposed to the dry air that comes from AC and heater and this leads to dry skin as this air robs the moisture from your baby’s skin leaving it dry. Make sure that your baby is not exposed to the air of AC or heater directly and also you can place a humidifier in your room so that the balance of moisture remains in the room making it comfortable and away from dryness. This way the effect of dry air will be minimized and your baby’s skin will remain supple and moisturized.

Quick bath

While bathing your baby keep the bath short and quick as your baby does not need that much of water for his bath. Do not use any kind of harsh soap on your baby’s gentle skin instead go for mild cleansing liquid soaps that do not dry out the skin. It is good to go if you apply soap once in a week on your baby’s skin. Lukewarm water is the best cleanser for your baby and make sure that you are not spending more than 5-6 minutes on your baby’s bath. 

Oil massage 

If your baby has dry skin then you can always apply natural oil to your baby’s skin after bath to keep it soft and well moisturized. Use light oil that is non-greasy and is easily absorbed by the skin. You can choose from olive oil or coconut oil as these are the best for your baby’s skin health. After the bath, dry out the skin of your baby and then massage oil on his skin for few minutes. This will help in locking up the moisture and keeps the skin moisturized.

Protection from the weather

Protect your baby’s skin from extreme summers and winters as well. Cover your baby completely to save him from sunburn during summers and in winters too, cover him completely to save him from cold waves. Also, keep his skin well moisturized by applying lotions and moisturizers to avoid dryness. 

These tips will prove to be handy for you and save your baby from the problems of dryness. So just follow them daily, as a routine and keep it safe and sound.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.