Low humidity and poor weather conditions tend to dry out a baby's skin. If the baby is a newborn, you may notice dry, peeling skin that lasts for a couple of weeks after birth; this is normal, according to Mayo Clinic. If your baby's skin is dry and is accompanied by red patches of skin, talk to your doctor to rule out any medical conditions, such as eczema.
Bath Time
Bath time may wash away your baby's natural body oils, which may cause dry spots on her skin. Spend no more than 10 minutes washing your baby. Fill the tub or basin with warm water and use a small amount of cleanser. If possible, use a soap-free, fragrance-free cleanser that is specially formulated for your baby's skin. After bath time, gently pat your baby dry to keep some of the moisture in her skin, then slather on a thick moisturizer specially formulated for babies.
Clothing
Tight clothing may rub against your baby's skin, which may result in chafing or dry, flaky skin. Many clothes feature straps or elastic in the waist plus in the arms and legs. Friction between these items and your baby's skin may cause chafing as well. Always dress your baby in comfortable, non-restrictive clothing. If you suspect dry spots are the result of chafing, give baby a bath and pat her skin dry; then use either cornstarch baby powder or lotion to moisturize baby's skin.
Dry Air
No matter what the season, dry air may be found both indoors and out. In the summertime, air-conditioning may rob the air in your home of its moisture. In winter, the air outdoors may lack moisture. As a result, dry skin may develop. Use a cool-mist humidifier to keep your baby's room moist all year long. In the winter, cover your baby's exposed skin to protect it from cold temperatures and the bitter wind.
Other Considerations
If you notice dry, crusty skin on or around your baby's head, it may be caused by seborrheic dermatitis or cradle cap. Cradle cap may also be found on other parts of your baby's body, including around the ears, eyelids, nose and groin area. To treat cradle cap, gently massage your baby's scalp, then use a mild cleansing shampoo. Rinse off the shampoo completely. Gently brush your baby's hair after her bath as well as multiple times throughout the day. If the dry skin does not go away, speak to your child's doctor.
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