As a new parent, you're flooded with advice. Especially when it comes to your baby's skin. Grandma swears by olive oil, your neighbour uses nothing but water, and Instagram shows you an endless stream of pastel bottles. What actually works?
Baby skin is different
A baby's skin is up to 5 times thinner than an adult's:
- It loses moisture faster
- It absorbs substances more quickly (good and bad)
- The skin barrier isn't fully developed yet
- The pH only stabilises after several weeks
A newborn's skin has a pH of around 7 (neutral) that drops to 5.5 (slightly acidic) in the first weeks. This acid mantle protects against bacteria and fungi.
The do's
Bathing: less is more
- 2-3 times per week is sufficient for the first months
- Use lukewarm water (37°C), not hot
- Limit bath time to 5-10 minutes
- Pat dry, don't rub
Choosing the right products
- Choose products specifically developed for baby skin
- Look for short, recognisable ingredient lists
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free is the standard
- Brands like Mustela, A-Derma (Primalba line) and La Roche-Posay (Lipikar Baby) have clinically tested baby ranges
Moisturising
- Apply a mild moisturiser after bathing, especially in winter
- Focus on natural skin folds (elbows, knees, wrists)
- For eczema-prone skin: a richer balm can work preventively
Sun protection
- Babies under 6 months shouldn't be in direct sun. Full stop. Protect with clothing and shade.
- From 6 months: use a mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) with at least SPF 50
The don'ts
- Don't use adult products on baby skin
- Don't apply perfume to baby skin
- Don't use wipes on the face - water and a soft cloth are sufficient
- Don't use olive oil as moisturiser - research shows it can damage baby skin barrier
- Don't over-wash with soap
Common baby skin problems
- Heat rash: Cooler clothing, let the skin breathe
- Cradle cap: Mild baby oil to loosen flakes, resolves on its own
- Nappy rash: Change frequently, air time, zinc paste as barrier
- Baby acne: Hormonal, goes away on its own
- Atopic eczema: Requires a treatment plan with your doctor. Basis: moisturise frequently with a rich, fragrance-free cream
When to see a doctor
- Rash that doesn't improve after a week of basic care
- Blisters, crusts or weeping patches
- Fever combined with a rash
- Intense itching affecting sleep
Belgian online pharmacies offer comprehensive baby ranges from specialised brands. The advantage of pharmacy brands over supermarket ones: they're typically fragrance-free, dermatologically tested, and formulated for baby skin's specific needs.