Is my baby’s skin different from mine?

Baby skin is fine, soft, delicate and permeable, which makes it extremely vulnerable to external aggressions. Body temperature control isn’t fully developed in babies, causing them to lose more water in hotter environments. Sebaceous glands produce smaller amounts of sebum, which tends to make baby skin drier and more reactive than adult skin. Baby skin is also more permeable, which leads to an increased risk of irritation and allergies upon contact with aggressive substances. Therefore, the skin’s barrier function is less efficient in babies than in adults. When this barrier function is compromised, the skin becomes dry, flaky, red and irritated.

How should I care for my baby’s skin?

In order to protect your child’s skin, you must ensure it’s always properly moisturised, in order to preserve its barrier function. Firstly, use mild bath products (gel and oil), with little detergent action, such as not to strip the skin of its protective lipid layer. Secondly, reduce water loss by using a suitable moisturiser. A good moisturiser should be pleasant and easily absorbed by the skin, allowing you to dress your child immediately after their bath.

Which products should I use?

You should choose your products carefully, as some baby products are unsuitable. For instance, not all baby products are fragrance-free, which is especially important in products such as moisturisers, as they remain in contact with the skin for longer. Common soaps and bath gels contain detergents and tend to dehydrate and irritate the skin, especially in children with dry, sensitive skin, prone to eczema. Many foaming bath products are too harsh. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

What is atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory skin condition that affects individuals genetically predisposed to developing this disorder. Atopic dermatitis typically manifests as dry, red, flaky, itchy skin. Although benign, this condition leads to considerable discomfort, as it may persist for prolonged periods. In about 90% of cases, symptoms appear for the first time during infancy. Symptoms persist until the child reaches one year in about 60% of cases. This condition usually improves in adolescence. Recent studies have revealed that the number of cases of atopic dermatitis has increased, especially in urban areas.

How should I care for atopic skin?

The first step in caring for atopic skin is to keep the skin moisturised. Skincare products should not contain irritants, aggressive fragrances or preservatives. Choose emollient bath products containing oils that soften the skin and reduce dryness. A moisturiser should be applied after the bath. Ideally, the moisturiser should be applied twice a day. Moisturisers rich in essential fatty acids and borage oil are particularly indicated for atopic skin. Other treatments may be required, particularly during flare-ups, as indicated by the doctor. Nevertheless, mild skincare products and moisturisers are a must, even when other treatments are used.

Since nappy rash is so frequent in babies, should I use a product to protect the nappy area?

Nappy rash is essentially caused by 2 factors: skin irritation, caused by close contact with urine and faeces, and local infection, caused by uncontrolled fungal or bacterial growth. Although less frequently, this condition can also be triggered by allergic reactions to fragrances or other ingredients in nappies or baby wipes. Nappy rash is a common condition. It occurs most frequently in the first nine months, although it can occur at any time while the baby wears nappies. The risk of developing nappy rash is increased by certain factors, such as antibiotics, dehydration and diarrhoea, which render the skin more vulnerable. It is important to protect the baby’s skin every time you change their nappy.