Baby Skin Care
Your infant’s soft skin is super sensitive. Here’s advice on how to care for it..jpg "Image from wikimedia.org/wikipedia")
Massage Moments
Massage can act as tactile stimulation and what better than mom’s touch. Wash your hands and use gentle strokes, says Dr Neelam Kler, chariman, Pediatrics, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi. She recommends cold pressed coconut or olive oil. Give a massage half to one hour before bath.Bath Basics
Keep baby’s bath short and quick. "Use warm to tepid bath water. You may not need soap except to clean up private parts," says Dr Preeta Mathur, consultant, Pediatrics, Columbia Asia Hospital, Pune. Wrap your baby in a sof towel and dab dry. Use a lotion only if you fnd the baby’s skin dry, says Kler. Try Pigeon Baby Milky Lotion, Cetaphil Baby Lotion, Sebamed Baby Lotion. Talcum powders aren't necessary.Dress Right
Dress baby in soft hosiery cotton clothes that are buttoned on the front. In winter, woollen clothes should be worn over it to avoid skin rashes.Diaper Drama
Diaper rash is caused by dampness combined with irritation. "Check your baby’s diaper every 2-3 hours, remove soiled ones immediately, pat her bottom dry and let her spend some diaper-free time to let her bottom breathe," says Kler. Use cloth nappies as far as possible. Wash them in a gentle detergent, rinse well and let them dry in the sun. Also, keep the area hygienic. "As far as possible, clean the area with a gentle stream of tepid water each time your baby poops. Else, use a soft, damp cloth to wipe it clean," adds Mathur. Let the area dry before you tie on the nappy. "Diaper rash cream is prescribed to treat a rash," says Mathur.Baby Products
Babies need minimal products because their skin is naturally soft and clear. "Get perfume-free, pH-neutral products," says Kler. "Anti-bacterial soaps and products, unless prescribed, are a no-no." Watch for allergic reactions (skin rash) even when using baby care products.From : PREVENTION Magazine
