How to Treat Dry Skin on Newborns

Newborns can get dry, flaky skin more easily than older children or adults because their skin is more delicate. Further, overly dry air, including that created by indoor heating or air conditioning, often deprives infant skin of the moisture it needs to remain healthy.

Instructions

1. Bathe your baby less frequently and for shorter periods of time. Most babies do not need daily 30-minute baths. Such frequent and lengthy bathing strips your baby's skin of the natural moisture and oils it needs to remain supple. Instead, try bathing your baby only a handful of times per week for 10 minutes each time in warm, not hot, water.

2. Toss out soaps and opt for fragrance-free, soap-free cleansers.

3. Moisturize your baby's skin immediately following her bath. Some parents use store-bought creams and salves for this. Some of these are perfectly fine for your infant's skin, but many contain harsh perfumes and fragrances that defeat the purpose. So try using inexpensive, natural oils such as olive or grape seed oil to moisturize your baby as an alternative.

4. Rinse salt water and chlorine water from your infant's skin immediately. Allowing salt and chlorine water to dry on your baby's skin will deplete it of its natural oils and moisture.

5. Hydrate your baby. Feed your baby breast milk or formula whenever she is hungry, as these also quench her thirst, keeping her hydrated. If your baby is old enough to drink water, then offer it frequently.

6. Use a humidifier in your home, especially in your baby's bedroom or wherever she sleeps most frequently.