How to Prevent Skin Irritations on Babies

Because a baby’s skin is thin, it can be extremely sensitive, making infants prone to rashes and dry skin. Many soaps, shampoos, and laundry detergents can irritate a baby’s skin, making him uncomfortable and miserable. That’s why the best treatment is prevention.

Things You'll Need

• Petroleum Jelly
• Zinc Oxide Ointment
• Mild Laundry Detergent

Instructions

1. Bathe your baby in lukewarm or tepid water, as bathing in hot water can cause dry skin. Many baby washes, shampoos, and other bath products may cause dry skin as well. Read labels carefully. Choose skin care products for your baby made only from natural ingredients with no chemical preservatives.

2. Change your baby’s diaper often. Be sure not to leave a diaper on for too long. Plain water is the best thing to use to clean your baby when changing. Let the area air dry or pat dry with a clean cotton towel before putting on a clean diaper. You need to keep your baby’s skin as dry as possible. Petroleum jelly or a zinc oxide ointment can be used to help keep your baby’s skin soft.

3. Avoid using baby wipes that are scented or contain alcohol. Sodium laurel sulfate, an ingredient commonly used in baby wipes and shampoo, has been linked to skin irritations, especially in infants and young children. Baby skin care products containing dyes may result in dermatitis or other allergic reactions.

4. Dress your baby in soft, loose-fitting clothing to maximize comfort and minimize friction against baby’s skin. Don’t select clothing made from fabrics that may be rough when rubbing against the skin. In particular, synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester, or wool and coarsely woven fabrics, can trigger skin irritation.

5. Launder your baby’s clothing in a gentle laundry detergent made specially for washing infant clothing. Steer clear of using bleach and harsh detergents, and always rinse clothing well.

Tips & Warnings

• Baby powders have been linked to respiratory problems in children, yet studies show that nearly 70% of parents use baby powders routinely, unaware of the dangers to baby. Talcum powders also are reported to cause yeast infections in female infants.

• Diapers or other clothing should not fit baby too tightly since this can cause skin irritation.