Newborns and infants

Infant skin care

Skin care basics

Bath time
Babies have sensitive skin that dries out easily. While some parents like to give the baby a bath every day, most babies, especially younger infants, only need one every few days. In between baths, parents should take care to keep baby's face and bottom very clean. Babies can have tub baths only after the exposed umbilical cord has fallen off, which can take up to a month after birth. (Umbilical cord care) Before then, a sponge bath will do.

When to bathe?
Ideally, a bath should be given in the morning or at the end of the day before a feeding so afterward the baby can then eat and fall asleep. However, a very hungry baby will be miserable in the tub. If you feed your baby first, wait 15 minutes or so before bathing to avoid spit up. Not all babies like a bath at first. Your relaxed attitude will help a great deal in helping baby enjoy a bath. Babies usually find baths tiring and so may you at first!

Here are some tips to make bath time better for everyone:

• NEVER leave an infant alone near a tub or water – not even for a minute!
• Make sure you have all supplies ready before you begin the bath – towel, mild shampoo or soap, cotton balls or wash cloth to clean face.
• Make sure the room is warm enough and the water is not too hot or cold before putting your baby in the tub. Baby's skin burns easily.
• Use a washcloth to gently wipe baby's face and ears. No soap is necessary near the eyes.
• Use only a mild baby shampoo and soap.
• Scrub your baby's scalp with a soft brush and rinse well to avoid cradle cap.
• Lotions are usually not necessary. Do not use talcum powder on your baby.

Baby or neonatal acne
Just what are those little white pimples on your baby's nose and cheeks? Baby acne. It's common for babies to develop acne in the first few weeks of life. Like acne that results later in life, baby acne is caused by a change in hormones prior to delivery. The hormones cause an increase in oil production, which causes the pimples. This condition usually passes by two months. What should parents do? Keep the skin clean but do not disturb the pimples. They will go away on their own. Do not apply acne creams. Rarely, the pimples may get infected. If so, call your pediatrician or health care provider.

Cradle cap
During a baby's first few months of life, he or she will probably develop cradle cap, a skin condition that looks like dirty skin on the scalp. There is nothing you can do to prevent it, but washing the scalp daily with soap and water will clear up most cases. You can also brush the scalp with a soft baby brush or toothbrush. Sometimes rubbing a little mineral oil into the scalp before a shampoo can help. But don't put oil on after the shampoo. Some consider cradle cap to be a form of eczema. If the condition persists or spreads, call your physician.

Heat rash
In hot weather, your baby may develop prickly heat or heat rash. This rash is more common if the infant is overdressed. The rash develops because the baby's pores don't work properly yet. It looks like tiny raised red bumps on a red patch and is most often found around the neck, on the chest and back and on the scalp. There is no need for any action on your part, although a cool bath and comfortable clothing may help the baby be more comfortable.

Sunburn
Babies have sensitive skin and should not be left in the sun too long, even if they are wearing sunscreen. Infants younger than six months of age should NOT be exposed to direct sunlight. Hats and sunglasses and light, loose clothing will help protect your baby from the sun. Sunburn causes pain and may increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Limit exposure between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sunscreens may be used after six months of age. Those containing zinc oxide or titanium oxide are good choices.

Treating sunburn
If your baby does have sunburn, you may want to call your doctor just in case. A cool (not cold) bath or a cool cloth placed on the skin may help. Make sure the baby drinks lots of fluids. If you see blisters or your infant appears listless, the condition may be more serious and require immediate medical attention.

Umbilical cord care
Until the remainder of the umbilical cord falls off sometime between one and three weeks after childbirth, regular cleaning of the area will prevent infection. Each time you change your baby's diaper, also clean around the umbilical cord. Take a clean cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol and clean all around the cord. This won't hurt the baby, but he or she may jump a bit from the cold alcohol. You should lift up the cord to clean underneath. Eventually, when the cord falls off, you may notice one spot of blood where it had been. This is normal and should not cause concern.

When to call the doctor
Most cords fall off easily. However, if you notice a foul smell near the cord, or if there is blood coming from the cord, call your doctor or health care provider.

For more information see Children skin care.

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Reviewed: Richard Antaya, MD, April 1999
Last revised: May 30, 2007 (dh)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.