Skin care in general is very important in this highly polluted environment we live in today. But one cannot treat an adult and a baby in the same way. Babies skin is more sensitive than any other adult person. It cannot withstand excessive or in adequate heat or cold environments.
A Babies skin does not let out excessive water and toxins in the form of sweat in order to maintain inner body temperature. Because of less sweating, the inner temperature is not properly taken care of. To top it, Babies skin is very thin when compared to an adult’s skin and formation or attack of bacteria is more probable when there are rashes on it.
Proper skin care has to be ensured to protect Baby from harmful allergens. For a new born baby, several changes occur in the first few months. Some changes might appear like a rash, which eventually disappear with time. however, there are some skin problems that you cannot ignore. Few Skin conditions that’s common in a baby are Heat rash, Infant Acne, Cradle Cap, Chafing and Eczema.
Heat rash generally erupts due to intense heat or humidity and undeveloped sweat glands. They appear in the form of small pink pimples. In hot environment or weather, do not dress baby with heavy clothes, try to keep clothes light and loose.
Infant acne also is a very common problem in Babies. When an infant is born, he retains the hormones of the mother and hence such acne develops. Though no external medication is required, yet if these remain for long time, then consult a doctor immediately.
Cradle cap is nothing but small patch formation on the scalp. This happens due to over active glands in Baby’s scalp. Simple solution to this would be wiping gently with baby oil regularly and leaving it for few minutes. Also brush or comb the baby once done.
Chafing results when there is friction between the baby and his clothes. Try to remove or change the clothes to ensure that friction is not created. Even if such chafing occurs, you can apply regular baby cream to subside it.
Lastly, Eczema is a genetically determined common skin condition which is also known as atopic dermatitis. Keep the skin dry and clean. Consult pediatrician or health care professional for proper medication.
By: Tom Schavo
You’ve just taken your new infant home and it’s time to practice everything you’ve read about. You may feel a little overwhelmed, but once you get into your routines, common care issues will soon come easy. Some common care issues include dealing with colic, cradle cap, bathing, umbilical cord care, pacifier use, diaper rash, and immunizations.
Colic is when a baby cries inconsolably, screams, and may even pull up on his or her legs. It’s hard to say what may be the cause. Sometimes, if you’re breast feeding, it may be a sign that your baby is sensitive to your diet. It may be a sign of a medical problem – for example, a hernia or possibly an illness. It could simply mean your infant is unusually sensitive to stimulation.
As your baby matures, they generally tend to grow out of their colicky state by three months, however, you should bring the condition to your pediatrician’s attention as soon as you can to rule out a medical condition. If you suspect it’s caused by breast feeding, modify your diet and cut down on milk products. Rocking might help or you might try a pacifier. Continue to follow up with your pediatrician if the situation persists.
Cradle cap is when a rash appears on the scalp of your baby. The cause of the condition is unknown, but most pediatricians suspect it may have something to do with hormonal changes during pregnancy which stimulate oil glands. The rash can extend to the face or diaper area. The best way to treat it is by using a mild baby shampoo more frequently than you did before. Stay away from baby oils. They are generally not helpful when it comes to cradle cap. If there’s not much improvement, let your pediatrician know. They might be able to prescribe additional medication to help clear the condition.
Diaper rash is generally used to describe a rash or irritation of the skin covered by the diaper. Some of the causes include leaving a wet or soiled diaper on too long, your infant has frequent stools, or when your baby is taking antibiotics. To treat the rash, change the diaper more often, air out your baby’s bottom, and try using a zinc-based ointment, such as Desitin. If the rash doesn’t improve, contact your pediatrician.
Until your baby’s umbilical cord falls off, all your baby needs is a sponge bath. The umbilical cord can take up to three weeks to fall off. Keep the stump clean and dry. Use a cotton swab to clean any wet, sticky material. Keep your baby’s diaper folded under the cord. Pus at the base of the cord, red skin around the cord, or crying when it’s touched, might be an indication that it’s infected. Let your pediatrician know right away.
Once the cord has fallen off, you can place your infant in a baby tub. Make sure all the supplies you need are within arms reach. Try to be as gentle and brief as you can. If your baby enjoys it, let him or her have some extra time. The more fun your baby has, the less they’ll be afraid of the water. Once your baby graduates to the big bathtub, then you can add toys for him or her to enjoy.
A pacifier is meant to satisfy your baby’s sucking needs, not replace or delay meals. Sometimes it helps them fall asleep, and sometimes it helps to sooth your baby. Keep in mind they don’t cause medical or psychological problems – it’s a benefit, not a convenience. My first boy, Andrew, took to a pacifier to help sooth himself and grew out of it appropriately. Every time we tried to offer our second boy, Joseph, a pacifier, he spit it out. We stopped offering it to him. He had a natural ability to sooth himself and really didn’t need it.
Immunizations are meant to protect your baby from ten major diseases. They are: polio, measles, mumps, chicken pox, rubella, whooping cough, diphtheria, tetanus, Hepatitis B, and a bacterial infection caused by haemophilus. While there is the potential for side effects, the American Academy of Pediatrics believe the benefits outweigh the risks when taking the vaccines. Generally, they help keep your infant healthy and safe from the above childhood diseases. If you have any questions regarding immunizations or their schedule as to when they should be given, consult your pediatrician.
By: Steph Burkhart
There are a variety of baby skin conditions and rashes out there and the best baby skin care prevention and treatment is to know what they are and what you can do about them.
Baby acne, is acne that happens on babies instead of adults. It is caused by the mother’s hormones coursing through the child’s blood stream. It generally occurs when your baby is two to three months old, and can last up to 4 to 6 weeks or more. Baby acne is normally noticed as red bumps on your child’s skin or face. Treating baby acne is fairly easy; the first baby skin care treatment is to keep the baby’s skin clean, and cool but not cold. Babies need warmth and if it’s too cold or too hot, it can hurt her, also avoid acne medicines and use only a mild soap to wash her with.
Another common problem is birthmarks; they can appear and are generally found around the head. If they are bigger than 1 and a half centimeters and closer to the spine, the bigger the problem they can cause. You need to have your pediatrician check her over thoroughly and if the doctor feels it is necessary, run a few tests. The birthmarks can be removed; however, caution is always advisable.
There are a few varieties of birthmarks and your doctor can help you to determine what type it is and what treatments are necessary.
The most common varieties are Stork bites, angel kisses, salmon patches, vascular stains; then the Café au lait spots, moles, Port-wine stains, or nevus flammeus, and Hemangioma. Knowing what type is half the battle on what needs to be and can be done.
Another very common and very frustrating condition is Cradle Cap; it is basically baby dandruff. Baby dandruff normally comes around when she is about three months old and can last several weeks. The severity of cradle cap can vary from one baby to the next as well as the treatments for it. The milder cases can generally be taken care of with No Tears baby shampoo. With the more extreme cases, many parents turn to olive oil and a soft comb designed just for her.
The most common and absolutely frustrating is diaper rash; it is more of a pain to your little girl than it is to you. Diaper rashes can be caused by a variety of things, especially the diapers themselves. Diaper rashes appear in different ways but if your little girl’s bottom is red and she is extremely irritable, then chances are she has it. There are a variety of natural cures and creams available for you to try. Your doctor can help you to determine the treatment and cure.
Just as there are numerous boys and girls, there are many rashes and skin conditions that can plague them. Your best bet with baby skin care is to be patient, ask plenty of questions and show your baby nothing but love and attention.
By: Bonnie Edgar