The New Mum’s Guide to Achieving Baby’s #SkinGoals

We all want skin that is as smooth as a baby’s bottom. Just after the initial peeling skin of a newborn, we know that babies have collagen-packed skin that makes it firm, plump, and smooth! Image by Nelly Aran from Pexels However, just a few months after, fellow mummies might start to worry if they see a few bumps on their skin. For first time mothers, you must know that your baby (despite their gorgeous skin) has vulnerable and sensitive skin, especially during the first three years of their lives. You see, a baby's skin is susceptible to undesirable skin conditions, such as rashes like heat and nappy rash and dermatitis, where they have flaky and red skin on their cheeks and scalp. The culprits may stem from the clothes that they wear, diapers, baby products, mother’s diet, exposure to UV rays, and environmental pollution. Image by Lance on Flickr With so many factors that can negatively affect their skin, what can you do to ward it off? Ah, you have come to the right place! We are going to uncover several ways to protect your baby’s skin, so it stays smooth, supple, and healthy! Sun Exposure The sun may provide us with our dose of vitamin D but it also has powerful ultraviolet rays that are too much for your baby’s first six months. Though sun exposure should still be kept at a minimum when they are young, their skin during their first few months is most vulnerable. When you are out, remember to walk on the shady side of the street and always shield your baby, even when they are in the stroller. Car rides are also when babies are exposed to a lot of UV rays. Just because they are comfortable in the air-conditioned space, it does not mean that their skin is safe. Opt to get tinted windows and windshields that are treated to filter out the harmful UVA and UVB rays. Before going out, lather on some baby sunscreen on their face and limbs, too. Baby Powder There has been a lot of debate as to whether baby powder is good or bad for the baby. Most of us grew up with our parents powdering us everywhere, maybe up until we went to preschool. However, with the latest scientific study, we find that baby powder is not good for the baby’s lungs because of the presence of talc. Most baby powders also contain artificial fragrance that is a no-no for a baby's delicate skin. However, if you need to use baby powder (especially to dry your baby’s bum), do ensure that it is talc and fragrance-free. Laundry Detergents Image from Flickr Using baby detergent to wash your newborn’s clothes is always recommended because they have extra-sensitive skin. However, if you feel that your baby’s skin may be even more sensitive than expected, it is encouraged that the family’s apparel is cleaned using baby detergent, too. Yes, it may be cumbersome for bubs with hyper-sensitive skin, but normal laundry detergents contain chemicals like surfactants that can initiate dermatitis. Surfactants are a common ingredient as it loosens dirt and oil particles on clothes so it can be washed off. Be sure to check the detergent used is free from perfumes and dyes. It is best if the detergent is hypoallergenic. You can also ask the paediatrician for a recommendation. Baby Skin Care It is not just about what you keep away from your baby; it is also about what you put on your baby. Babies are generally quite clean, other than the occasional poo-poo, pee-pee, and posseting. Therefore, resist the urge to keep bathing your baby or wiping them with baby wipes now and again. When you do it too frequently, you remove the natural oils that protect their skin; leaving it dry. Try using bath and moisturising products that are gentle enough for the baby’s delicate skin. Cetaphil’s Baby range is ideal for newborns and babies’ delicate skin. Gentle, hypoallergenic, free from parabens, mineral oils, and animal-derived ingredients, it is highly recommended by paediatricians. It is also endorsed by dermatologists, clinically proven, and trusted by many modern mothers. Image from Cetaphil Facebook Effective yet gentle, that is the balance that Cetaphil’s Baby range has achieved. Why Care For Your Baby’s Skin? Well, other than for obvious reasons that they are the apple of your eye, it keeps them from feeling itchy all over. They cannot tell you what is wrong in a way that you can comprehend. By taking good care of their skin, it reduces their reasons (and amount) of crying. When there is less crying, both mummy and baby can sleep better. When mummies know what they are doing right, it reduces the risk of postpartum depression; creating a stronger bond between both mummy and baby. Cetaphil Knows Your Baby’s Skin! Image from Cetaphil Facebook Cetaphil’s Baby Range consists of: Cetaphil Baby with Organic Calendula Wash & Shampoo that soothes dry skin. Cetaphil Baby Gentle Wash for soft and smooth hair and skin. Cetaphil Baby Shampoo that cleanses sensitive scalp without drying it. Cetaphil Baby Moisturising Bath & Wash with aloe vera for a lather rich and soothing bath. Cetaphil Baby with Organic Calendula Daily Lotion to protect against dry skin. Cetaphil Baby Advanced Protection Cream to calm dry skin against irritation and discomfort. Cetaphil Baby Daily Lotion to nourish and soothe delicate skin. Be sure to give your baby the best skin products, so it remains smooth, supple, and free from any skin irritation. To know more about Cetaphil’s products, head over to their webpage, Facebook, or Instagram. If you are a visual momma, you can watch their videos on YouTube, too!

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