Your baby’s skin is so soft, smooth and silky that you just can’t help but touch it. As a mum, you have the joy of nuzzling those chubby little cheeks, dimpled thighs and tiny fingers and toes.
Because your baby’s skin is still developing, it is more vulnerable and sensitive to external aggressors. Some babies have more sensitive skin than others, which can result in the skin becoming sore, itchy or inflamed. As a parent, you have the responsibility of caring for and protecting your baby’s skin from the world. Chemicals, allergies and the environment are just some of the many factors that can cause irritation and affect your baby’s skin.
As a new parent, you naturally want the best for your baby. You want them to be happy, healthy and comfortable at all times. Thankfully, there’s plenty you can do to protect your little one from skin problems and immune impairment from chemical products. Purchasing the right baby clothes for sensitive skin is one way to ensure they remain comfortable throughout the day. We’ve composed a list of useful tips and easy-to-follow skincare basics to give you the knowledge and confidence to cope with your baby’s sensitive skin.
Baby Skincare Tips For Parents
1. Moisturise Your Baby’s Skin
It’s never too early to moisturise! Moisture replenishes the skin and gives your child a protective barrier. Creams are generally a good choice as they absorb easily and contain humectants, which help the skin retain moisture. Ointments provide the best moisture but are rather greasy and don’t absorb well.
Choose a fragrance-free moisturiser and avoid creams, ointments and lotions that contain harmful chemicals including parabens and phthalates. Moisturise once or twice a day, preferably morning and night to keep your baby’s skin soft and supple.
2. Choose Baby Clothes For Sensitive Skin
Clothing, blankets and bedding are the most common triggers of discomfort and irritation. Dress your baby in natural materials like cotton, linen and wool which allow the skin to breathe more easily. Choose soft and breathable fabrics like the Merino wool range from Henry and Grace. Our adorable range of t-shirts, bodysuits, leggings, hoodies, blankets and wraps are perfect for babies with sensitive skin.
Among the many benefits of ultrafine Merino wool, it is non-allergenic meaning it is great for babies suffering from skin conditions including eczema and dermatitis. Unlike other superfine alternatives, Henry and Grace use Gostwyck Ultrafine Merino only 15 microns thick, lending it additional softness on sensitive skin.
3. Protect Your Baby’s Skin From The Sun
Another way to protect your baby’s sensitive skin is to ensure they are properly clothed and protected from the sun. Avoid openly exposing your newborn to the sun’s most harmful rays between the hours of 10am - 4pm, especially during the Summer. For babies six months and older, you should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or more from head-to-toe, at least 15 minutes before you go into the sun.
Adding a second layer of clothing can further protect your baby from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Coveralls, long pants or a dress, accompanied with a hat will ensure maximum protection and prevent your baby’s sensitive skin from being irritated. Our ultrafine Merino baby clothes absorb UV radiation and provide excellent protection from the sun.
4. Keep Your Baby’s Skin Clean
Protect your baby’s skin from irritation by vacuuming the floors and furniture of dirt, dust and pet dander. Focus on the areas in which they spend most of their time, particularly the nursery, the living room and your favourite chair.
Following a regular nighttime bathing routine is also a fantastic way to protect your little ones skin. Not only is bathing calming for your baby, it washes away oils and excess dry skin that can lead to skin conditions. Warm water is generally sufficient to clean most areas. Save your fragrance-free soap for your baby’s bottom and chubby folds of skin.
Your baby’s bath water should be between 37 - 38°C, and bath time should be quick and fun. Washing for too long can reduce the skin’s natural oils and increase the risk of irritation, so keep bath time between 5 - 10 minutes. We also recommend patting your baby’s skin dry rather than rubbing it to avoid aggravating sensitive skin. If necessary, a fragrance-free, no-rinse soothing cleansing water can be used between baths to dissolve dirt and impurities without stripping your baby’s skin of its natural oils.
5. Check Nappies Regularly
Perhaps the most sensitive part of your baby’s body is their diaper area. It’s exposed to a lot of moisture and unless you’re using cloth diapers, it does not receive much air throughout the day. Keeping your little ones bottom dry and using products that prevent irritation and discomfort is essential. Check your baby’s nappy frequently and choose products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Soothing cleansing wipes, diaper rash creams and liniment oils help to clean and moisturise your baby’s skin, creating a moisturising barrier that hydrates the diaper area and protects it from irritation.
With these baby skincare tips for new parents, you can be sure that you’re doing the right thing for your baby’s health whilst keeping their skin soft and supple for many years to come! Our Henry and Grace ultrafine Merino baby clothes for sensitive skin are ethically produced and lovingly perfected over generations at our family farm. Protect your baby’s delicate skin by shopping our adorable range today!