Nothing compares to the softness of a baby’s skin, but being so delicate also makes infant skin vulnerable to irritation and infection.

WHAT TO EXPECT AN HOW TO CARE FOR IT
When skin problems are unsettling your baby you can usually see what you’re dealing with and can closely monitor the progress. In most cases skin problems will clear up by themselves, but there are many ways to ease the unrest along the way. Read on for a guide to the most common baby skin conditions during baby’s first year and how to treat them.

DRY SKIN
Newborns can have dry, cracked and peeling skin for a few weeks, but this typically causes more upset for mums and dads than baby.

If you’re worried, avoid using soap in the bath as this sometimes causes more dryness – warm water is often all you need.

NAPPY RASH
This is a red rash around the bottom and genital area, which can cause your baby considerable irritation.

According to the Paediatric Society of New Zealand and the Starship Foundation, nappy rash is often
caused by:

• Wetness from urine and faeces – the longer the nappy is wet or dirty the higher the risk.
• Chemical irritation – urine and faeces contain irritating substances that may lead to a rash if they’re in contact with the skin for too long. Also, too much soap can irritate the skin and dry it out. Any residual detergents and soaking solutions in cloth nappies can also cause irritation.

To prevent nappy rash, change nappies frequently and wash baby’s bottom or use nappy wipes at every change.

Some nappy-off time will help the area breathe, and applying a nappy rash ointment assist the skin to heal.

ECZEMA
Eczema is an inflammation of the skin that’s often red, dry and itchy. In babies it tends to occur on the face and scalp.

Although its cause is unknown, it’s thought to involve an over-reactive immune system and tends to occur in people with an allergy to a number of things.

Common allergy triggers, such as wool and perfumed soaps, can make eczema worse. Try to avoid direct contact with wool by putting cotton singlets or cotton tops under woolen jerseys. Also avoid overdressing or overheating your baby.

Certain foods (via breast milk) may also be a trigger; it’s important to discuss the possible causes with your doctor to find the best solution to eczema. Moisturisers are usually recommended, but mild steroid creams may be needed.

To help curb the itching, keep baby’s fingernails short and keep cotton mittens on when sleeping. Scratching the itch can lead to weepy, crusted areas and the risk of infection.

CRADLE CAP
Cradle cap is simply the term for thick, scaly areas on baby’s head. It’s very common, doesn’t hurt your baby and requires no treatment, usually going by 6 months of age. Cradle cap can look greasy, but over time it will usually flake and rub off. If cradle cap becomes red and itchy, see your doctor.

5-STEP PREVENTION AND TREATMENT
Step 1: Less is best
Step 2: Let the skin breathe
Step 3: Seek professional advice
Step 4: Let nature run its course
Step 5: Your babies sensitivity

More detail on these five steps can be found by clicking here.

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