As a mom, you know how delicate your baby's skin is. You want to do everything you can to keep it soft, smooth, and kissable.
Unfortunately, no matter how much care you take, your baby's skin can become dry and itchy. It’s a common problem. And it can be caused by several factors.
Today, we’re going to look at the biggest causes of babies’ dry skin. Let us do the hard work for you so that you have more time to take care of your little one.
Causes of Babies’ Dry Skin
Here are the five most common causes of dry skin in babies!
1- Weather
One of the most common causes of dry skin in babies is the weather.
In the winter months, the air tends to be drier, which can cause your baby's skin to become dry and flaky. Whilst in the summer, excessive heat can also dry out the skin.
To combat this, make sure to keep your baby's skin moisturized with a baby-safe moisturizer and dress them in breathable and comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather.
2- Bathing
Another common cause of dry skin in babies is bathing too frequently - sounds odd, right?!
While you might think that frequent baths are good for your baby's skin, too many can strip away the natural oils and leave their skin dry.
A good rule of thumb is to bathe your baby every two to three days, using a mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water.
If you live in a hard water area, consider using a water softener or adding a few drops of baby oil to the bathwater to help protect your baby's skin.
Don't hesitate either to hydrate your baby's skin after each bath with a gentle moisturizer.
It so happens that both our diapering lotion and diaper balm are perfect and safe to hydrate your baby's skin after a bath!
3- Dehydration
If you're breastfeeding, your baby might develop dry skin due to a lack of hydration.
Breast milk is an excellent source of hydration, and if your baby isn't getting enough, their skin might become dry and flaky. Make sure that your baby is drinking enough milk by monitoring their feeding patterns and offering them plenty of opportunities to nurse.
You can also regularly offer your baby some water, using a bottle, a small glass, or even a soft baby spoon.
4- Eczema
Dry skin in babies can also be caused by skin conditions such as eczema.
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It's common in babies and can be triggered by a variety of factors, including allergens, stress, and irritants.
If you suspect that your baby has eczema, consult with a pediatrician or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
5- The Environment
In addition to the above causes, there are several other environmental factors that can contribute to dry skin in babies.
These include using harsh detergents or fabric softeners on your baby's clothes, exposing your baby to cigarette smoke, and using air conditioning or heating systems that dry out the air.
How to Prevent and Treat Dry Skin in Babies
To prevent dry skin in your baby, make sure to keep their skin moisturized with a baby-safe lotion or cream.
La Petite Creme diaper balm and diapering lotion are made with all-natural, organic ingredients and can be used to massage your baby’s skin daily to prevent and treat dry skin.
If your baby is struggling with dry skin, you’ll also want to avoid products, environments, and fabrics that might irritate your baby.
Although dry skin is a common problem, with a little extra care and attention, you can keep your baby's skin healthy and smooth. And by understanding the common causes of dry skin in babies and taking steps to prevent it, you can help your baby to feel comfortable and happy all over!
Let us help you to take care of your little ones!