Dry Skin Treatment for Babies

The womb offers a protective environment prior to your baby's birth. One form of protection is a creamy white coating known as vernix caseosa, according to Leiden University. The vernix caseosa helps keep your baby's skin soft and supple. As your baby grows, this protection is absorbed back into his skin. Sometimes babies develop dry skin after the vernix caseosa is lost, but you can ensure that you baby's skin remains healthy with a few simple remedies.

Tips and Warnings

• Leaving your baby diaper-free for short periods throughout the day can also help calm and relieve the dry skin associated with diaper rash.
• Do not mistake cradle cap for dry skin. Cradle cap is actually a harmless condition that causes dry, flaky skin on the scalp due to an overgrowth of skin cells. The University of Rochester Medical Center recommends gently brushing away the flakes with a clean adult toothbrush. Do not use traditional baby powder or baby powder containing cornstarch on your baby's skin. Airborne particles from the baby powder can enter your baby's lungs, causing breathing problems.

Things You'll Need

• Lukewarm water
• Gentle soap
• Soft washcloth
• Unscented cream or lotion containing humectants
• Protective ointment containing zinc oxide
• Soft cloth

References

• University of Rochester Medical Center: What Your Baby May Look Like
• Naval Medical Center San Diego, Department of Pediatrics: Newborn Care Guide
• University of Pittsburgh: Hair and Skin Care for African American and
• NYU Langone Medical Center: Diaper Rash