This leaflet provides detailed information about bathing, skincare products, and other care practices to help you take the best care of your baby.
Bathing Your Newborn
When to Start Bathing:
• First Bath: It is recommended to delay the first bath until the umbilical cord stump falls off and the area heals, usually within the first 1-2 weeks.
• Sponge Baths: Until the umbilical cord stump falls off, give your baby sponge baths. Use a soft cloth and warm water to clean the baby’s face, neck, and diaper area.
How Often to Bathe:
• Newborns (0-1 Month): Bathing 2-3 times a week is sufficient. Overbathing can dry out the baby’s delicate skin.
• Infants (1 Month+): You can increase bathing frequency based on your baby’s needs and comfort, but 2-3 times a week is still generally sufficient.
Bathing Products:
• Soap: Use mild, fragrance-free baby soap. Avoid adult soaps as they can be harsh on the baby’s skin.
• Shampoo: Use a gentle, tear-free baby shampoo if needed. Often, water alone is enough for newborns.
• Water Temperature: Ensure the bath water is warm (around 37-38°C or 98-100°F). Test with your elbow or wrist to ensure it is comfortable.
Skincare for Your Baby
Moisturizers:
• When to Use: Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing while the skin is still damp to lock in moisture.
• Types: Use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free baby lotions or creams. Avoid products with alcohol or strong fragrances.
Powders:
• Talcum Powders: Avoid using talcum powders as they can cause respiratory issues if inhaled.
• Alternatives: If needed, use cornstarch-based powders sparingly. Apply carefully to avoid dust clouds that can be inhaled.
Oil Massage:
• Benefits: Oil massage can be beneficial for bonding, relaxation, and improving circulation.
• Types of Oil: Use natural oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, or specially formulated baby massage oils. Avoid mineral oils and oils with added fragrances.
• Frequency: A daily massage before bath time can be soothing, but adjust based on your baby’s comfort and skin condition.
Common Dos and Don’ts
Dos:
• Do Use Gentle Products: Always choose products specifically designed for babies, as they are formulated to be gentle on delicate skin.
• Do Patch Tests: Test any new product on a small area of your baby’s skin to check for allergic reactions before full use.
• Do Keep Bath Time Short: Limit baths to 5-10 minutes to prevent skin from drying out.
• Do Pat Dry: After bathing, gently pat your baby dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing.
• Do Monitor Skin Condition: Regularly check for signs of dryness, redness, or irritation and adjust products accordingly.
Don’ts:
• Don’t Use Adult Products: Avoid using adult soaps, shampoos, or lotions on your baby’s skin.
• Don’t Over-Bathe: Bathing too frequently can strip natural oils and dry out the skin.
• Don’t Use Talcum Powder: Talcum powder can cause respiratory issues and is not recommended.
• Don’t Rub Skin Dry: Rubbing can irritate delicate skin. Pat gently with a soft towel instead.
• Don’t Ignore Skin Changes: If you notice persistent dryness, rash, or other skin issues, consult your pediatrician.
Conclusion
Caring for your newborn’s skin and ensuring proper bathing practices are essential for their health and comfort. By following these guidelines, you can help keep your baby’s skin soft, healthy, and irritation-free. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our hospital or your pediatrician.
