Baby skincare is a topic that can keep many mums and mums-to-be awake at night. You keep asking yourself which products to choose at the beginning? You search online for answers. We’re here to help!
Baby skin
Up to around 2–3 years of age, a child’s skin is particularly delicate and sensitive. It is thinner, lighter, and therefore more vulnerable to factors such as sunlight and unfavourable weather conditions. Its protective mechanisms are not yet fully developed, which is why babies and young children are more exposed to environmental stressors.
The main differences between a child’s and an adult’s skin include fewer sweat glands and an underdeveloped protective barrier. At this stage, the hydrolipid barrier is still forming. As a result, a baby’s skin requires especially gentle and careful care.
How to choose skincare products for children?
First and foremost, consider the child’s age. If a product is suitable from birth, this should be clearly stated on the packaging. Always match products to the child’s age and check the ingredients carefully.
Products should contain soothing and calming ingredients, and be free from potentially irritating substances such as SLS, SLES, parabens, artificial colourants, silicones, strong cleansing agents, paraffin, and mineral oils.
Moisturising – the foundation of baby skincare
Baby skincare should primarily focus on protecting the skin from dryness, irritation, and chafing. Products chosen for children should moisturise and support the hydrolipid barrier. However, less is more – minimalism is key. Too many products can unnecessarily overload delicate skin.
Bath time
For bathing, choose products with gentle cleansing agents or emollients. A natural emollient such as sweet almond oil can be added in small amounts to the bath to provide extra soothing and moisturising benefits.
Protection from sun and wind
Young children should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Their skin should always be protected with a high SPF, even on cloudy days. UV exposure can increase the risk of skin damage later in life. In autumn and winter, it is also important to protect the skin from cold and wind to prevent dryness and irritation.
Nappy area care
Care in this area should focus on proper hygiene, thorough drying, and the use of protective creams that soothe irritation and have antibacterial properties.
Cradle cap
A common concern for many parents is cradle cap. A simple method is applying sweet almond oil for around 30 minutes, then gently brushing out the flakes with a soft-bristled brush.
What to avoid in baby skincare?
Avoid ingredients that may compromise the skin barrier, such as SLS and SLES. These, combined with water, can strip the skin’s natural lipid layer, leading to dryness, flaking, and irritation.
Paraffin can also create an occlusive layer on the skin, under which bacteria may accumulate.
Ingredients to look for
Oils: sweet almond oil, hemp oil, olive oil, evening primrose oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, shea butter, apricot kernel oil.
Botanical extracts such as chamomile, calendula, lavender and aloe vera.
Allantoin, panthenol.
Summary
Above all, parents should focus on simplicity and choosing products appropriate for the child’s age. For newborns, fragrance-free or very gently scented products are best. Choose skincare with moisturising, soothing and nourishing properties. Following these principles ensures safe and gentle care for such sensitive skin.
