Caring for your baby’s skin: Tips from a Dermatologist
Interview with Dr. Sophie Momen, Consultant Dermatologist, Cadogan Clinic and One Welbeck
What are the most common conditions that affect babies and infants and how can parents manage them?
There are several common skin conditions that affect babies in the newborn period such as cradle cap (seborhehic dermatitis) and neonatal acne. Thankfully these are not harmful and in most cases they will resolve on their own.
Probably the most common skin condition to affect babies and infants is eczema, this is very common and can range from mild cases (such as small patches of dry skin) to some children having more severe cases.
“Steroid ointments, if used in the correct manner, are safe to use on infant skin”
For milder cases these can mostly be managed with a non-fragranced emollient that is formulated for eczema prone skin (recommendation below). Some infants may need a steroid ointment to control areas of eczema… if used in the correct manner (as directed by a GP or dermatologist) then these are safe to use on infant skin.
What are your recommendations for starting a healthy skin care routine from a young age? Are there any specific ingredients that parents should avoid when it comes to baby skin care?
I encourage parents to keep skin care to an absolute minimum during childhood unless there is an underlying skin condition that needs to be treated. I would avoid anything that is fragranced (sweet smelling!) or full of bright colours… it is likely that these ingredients may irritate the delicate skin of an infant.
“I encourage parents to keep skin care to an absolute minimum during childhood”
I tend to avoid bubble bath and use a non fragranced wash (e. g Aveeno) in small quantities only if required.
“Bath bombs are an absolute no-no in our house!”
How can parents protect their baby's skin from the sun, and what should they know about sunscreen use for infants?
Adopting sun protection in childhood is essential! I am passionate about this.
“We know that one blistering sunburn can double the risk of developing melanoma later on in life.”
Habit formation starts in childhood, if you implement sun protection as part of a regular routine in childhood then this will set you up for sun protection in adulthood.
“For babies less than 6 months old sunscreen is not advised.“
Instead babies should avoid direct sunlight, be kept in the shade and their skin covered with clothing, hats, sun canopies , UV umbrellas etc. Care should be taken to ensure they do not over heat.
Over 6 months of age SPF can be used, look for ones which are suited for babies skin (this can be either mineral or chemical). I prefer to cover up my children’s skin with UPF clothing and hats and use SPF on the remaining exposed areas.
Can you advise on choosing the right moisturisers for babies and infants?
Again I would keep things simple - my 3 favourite baby products are
Avene cicalfate for areas of dry skin or nappy rash, this is such a versatile product and can be used by the whole family.
What are some common misconceptions about baby skin care, and what advice would you give to parents?
There are many misconceptions, I could go on forever!
Firstly, the concept of natural skincare. There are plenty of “natural” plant extracts that can harm the skin so the concept does not make sense. Essential oils can cause skin allergies, I see many people in clinic who have allergies from essential oils in skincare that they are using.
“Preservative free”. Agents such as preservatives are essential to prevent bacterial growth in cosmetics.
Thank you!
Dr. Sophie Momen
