Baby's Sensitive Skin

Baby soaps and lotions always sound so nice, almost irresistible. Even I can hardly wait to use a special product when it claims to give me a delicious smelly baby as well as a calm happy baby who drifts off to dreamland peacefully. But for some babies it can be havoc for their skin. “Soothing” “Calming” “Refreshing”. Even I’m tempted to lather up my children and send them to bed squeaky clean and smelling delicious. In fact, when I mention to some parents to stop the sweet lotion and soaps they look a little dejected. If you’re using these baby soaps and lotions without any problem then keep on using it.

Unfortunately a baby’s skin is so sensitive and prone to rashes you may have to sacrifice the baby perfumes in favor of health skin. A baby can have an allergic reaction to what appears to be the most simple of cleansers, even those labeled just for baby or sensitive skin. Cetaphil liquid soap or a baby’s soap can work well for some babies but there are those few that will break out with even these good choices. If your child is this sensitive here’s what I like to use.

• Plain water or a mild bar soap such as Dove for sensitive skin. I also like California Baby shampoo and cleansers.

• Follow the bath with a good mild lotion. My favorite is Vaseline Deep Moisture Creamy Formula. Make sure you put it on when the skin is still moist.

• Hydrocortisone 1 % cream used twice daily for 3-4 days can be used on reddened areas. Be sure to check with your pediatrician because the rash may a fungal infection and will need different medication.

These three things used in combination can calm most irritated skin. There are babies whose rashes are a sign of eczema and they will need to have their skin cared for by their physician. Make sure you check with your pediatrician for guidance. For now you’ll have to be content to see the pink fresh skin only scented with their natural sweet smell. What could be better than that?

Sheila Cason, MD