Mommy on board

Mothers know that young skin is more prone to dryness. It is a common experience that the baby's skin turns dry. Babies' skin comes in different types and responds differently to temperature, weather condition and moisture.

Dealing with baby's dry skin can be quite a challenge. But, of course, there are ways to remedy a dry skin - fast!

Avoid salt or chlorinated water.

As fun as a swim at sea or pool may be, it might first have to be understood that salty or chlorinated water can be very drying to the skin, especially the baby's! But if you can't resist the urge, just make sure to rinse off the baby - or any child - afterwards with fresh warm water and apply moisturiser while the skin is still damp.

Don't give the baby too many baths.

Bath removes the skin's natural oils and therefore frequent bathing causes the skin to be dry. However, daily baths shouldn't be a problem so long you take a few precautions, like cutting down bath times, using lukewarm water, using fragrance- and soap-free cleansers, and even using baby bath oils. But be very careful with baby bath oils - they can be dangerously slippery; so you need to be very careful in handling your little one when using it during bath. And absolutely no bubble baths!

Get a humidifier.

You can't go wrong with better air quality and, of course, moisturized skin for the baby sleeping in an air-conditioned room. Choose a quiet and easy-to-clean humidifier type.

Keep the baby hydrated.

Having dry skin can also mean that your child lacks internal hydration. Providing the little one with clean drinking water and other healthy drinks can help replace the moisture that is lost from the skin through evaporation.

Protect the baby from the elements.

Whatever the season, always protect the baby from the wind and sun! (Well, from the rain too, of course.)

Keep the baby away from skin irritants.

Using powders, cologne or perfumes, regular laundry products (opt for baby laundry products instead), soaps or shampoos and even wearing tight or rough clothing can sometimes be very irritating, which can cause dry skin and itchiness.

Use a moisturizer on the little one.

After bathing and drying the baby, use a moisturiser immediately; the thicker, the better. You might even want to moisturise your child twice a day if you wish. If a regular baby lotion still doesn't seems to do its job, then you might try switching to a thicker cream or ointment; but it can also be too greasy, so think carefully about this option.

If the baby's dry skin persists after you've taken all the precautions and tried all possible cures, then it is time to bring it to the attention of a paediatrician.

(Helpful Resources: www.babycentre.com; www.whattoexpect.com)