Soothe your baby’s scratchy skin with these expert tips and product picks.
Article & Photo courtesy of Well Rounded NY
There’s something almost addictive about that silky soft baby skin; just one little tickle on those gorgeous newborn rolls makes you forget about all that crying, pooping and sleep-deprivation. But if you’ve ever had eczema–or any seasonal allergies or asthma–then your little one may get it too, turning those silky baby cheeks (and arms, shins and legs) all itchy and raw.
These cold winter months are the worst, says NYC dermatologist Dr. Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, when the weather strips skin of its naturally moisturizing enzymes. Harsh soaps and chemical-heavy products can make the uncomfortable skin condition even worse, no matter what the weather.
“The single most important thing to do to help your baby’s skin is to moisturize,” says Dr. Mudgil, using mild, non-toxic products that are healthy for baby. And rather than skip the bath, skip the toweling off instead–slather baby up while she’s still nice and wet, and lock in those delicious drops of moisture all night long.
From eczema-soothing skin care products, like Weleda’s new Baby Derma White Mallow line, to organic cotton layette that’s like second-skin, here’s the best picks for helping baby stay silky and soft.
Weleda Baby Derma White Mallow Collection
This natural skincare brand was already our go-to for organic products for both mom and baby, but Weleda’s new 100% certified natural Baby Derma White Mallow collection now has our vote for eczema -- and the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association. The recently launched White Mallow Diaper Rash cream is a great addition to the collection, which already included White Mallow Face Cream and White Mallow Body Lotion. Buy it here.
Seventh Generation Diapers
After you treat baby’s skin to some Weleda White Mallow love, opt for a chlorine-free diaper that’s free of fragrances, inks and petroleum-based lotions. A pioneer in all things clean and green, we’re obsessed with Seventh Generation’s new Touch of Cloth diapers, which are as comfy as cloth, but still convenient and disposable. Buy it here.
Crane smartDrop Humidifier
Moisture can come in many forms, and air is one of them. Give baby’s skin a little extra love by planting a humidifier in her nursery that does double duty for her skin while it’s clearing her congestion. This Crane smartDrop is not only easy on the eyes, it’s also super easy to use since it’s WiFi connected and can be controlled by an app. Buy it here.
Tane Organics Romper
During those first few months, baby’s often covered from head to toe, so it’s worth giving a little thought to what he’s covered in. Invest in some organic cotton, like this smartly designed romper from Tane Organic. It’s not only soft and luxurious, but also free from bleaches, dyes, softeners, flame-retardants and other gross stuff you wouldn’t want on your body, let alone your baby’s. Steer clear from wool too, which can often irritate sensitive skin. Buy it here.
Ecover Laundry Detergent
With optical brighteners, synthetic fragrances and too many chemicals to count, it’s no surprise that laundry detergent can be a biggie when it comes to skin irritation. Clean up your cleaning act by opting for a non-toxic and biodegradable version like this natural one from Ecover. Buy it here.
giggle Changing Pad
Your baby will spend an awful lot of time in the nude on your changing table during those first few months. Pick a natural changing pad cover that won’t add to her skin irritation like this extra soft giggle version made from pure, certified 100% organic sherpa cotton. Buy it here.
This article is by Jessica Pallay, courtesy of Well Rounded NY. Conceived with love by former magazine editors Jessica Pallay and Kaity Velez, Well Rounded NY aims to be the singular pregnancy resource for city-savvy moms-to-be. Through reviews, profiles, expert Q&As, local guides and more, Well Rounded curates the New York City pregnancy and helps its readers come to terms – and term! – with pregnancy in the city.