Taking care of a newborn's delicate skin is one of mom's top concerns after birth. What can you use? What should you avoid? An expert and a few experienced moms and a dad break it down for you here — so no worries!
Assess the condition of your newborn's skin
"The most important consideration is to assess the natural condition of your child’s skin. Many newborns will have infantile eczema (dry, often irritated skin) and thus parents will have to enforce stricter bathing rules commonly recommended to be every other day, while utilizing a gentle cleanser. Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, is the proper usage of moisturizers; these often come in either emollients (classically petroleum jelly-based solutions) or creams. I am a huge advocate for the usage and benefits of emollients as they not only moisturize the skin but 'lock in' the natural moisture of the skin that organically evaporates, leaving skin dryer than its previous condition."
— Matthew S. Cohen, MD, board-certified pediatrician currently practicing in Long Beach, New York
Avoid regular baths and scented creams
"Avoid regular baths for a few weeks, and only give a sponge bath every other day. Also, avoid lotions with fragrance. A little bit of coconut oil on the skin goes a long way and helps your newborn's skin from cracking."
— Erika Santos, mom of one
Find a product that's best for your baby
"Don't bathe them every day. We need our natural oils. Find a product that works best for your baby. My firstborn's skin was way more sensitive than my second child. I will say that cloth diapering made all the difference! He would not break out in cloth diapers."
— Bonnie Gonzalez, mom of two
Go with the classics
"Coconut oil or baby oil is the best moisturizer for the baby's skin."
— Anonymous, dad of two
Moisturizing after bath time is essential
"Depending on your doctor's suggestions, and as per skin type, use some oil for baby massage, like olive oil or coconut oil. Using a moisturizer after bathing is essential. If you are breastfeeding, drink lots of water, which helps with baby's skin. Don't use baby wipes with harsh chemicals, and don't rub. Clean the body, but be gentle while cleaning."
— Mahati Ramya, mom of two
Dry skin, fewer baths
"It depends on your newborn's skin. If they have dry skin, then fewer baths. But if they are prone to eczema, I would say at least wash/wipe those sticky areas and moisturize to prevent flare-ups."
— Trang Le, mom of one
