Baby skin is delicate and particularly sensitive
The human skin forms a natural barrier against environmental influences. It protects the body from harmful stimuli and prevents it from drying out. Even healthy adult skin copes more easily with its demanding tasks if it is supported by appropriate, mindful care for the particular skin type. For example, dry skin or particularly sensitive skin each requires special care products. This applies all the more for delicate, sensitive baby skin. A new-born baby’s skin is much more sensitive than that of a growing child, because the protective lipid film and the natural acid mantle is not yet fully developed. The skin then becomes accustomed to environmental conditions during the first few months after birth. The skin’s many functions meanwhile continue developing. According to the latest medical findings, this takes baby’s first year to complete. During this time, there are great demands on the performance of the baby’s skin. Careful observation of the skin functions, loving care and cleansing and care products that are specifically formulated to meet the needs of babies assist with the development of the skin and facilitate a healthy start in life for baby’s skin.
Bathing and swimming for baby – a treat with appropriate care for baby skin
The barrier function of baby skin needs time to develop. The first step to optimally cared-for baby skin is thorough cleansing. A bath two or three times weekly cleanses the skin thoroughly and gently. At a room temperature of 22–24 °C and a water temperature of 37 °C, a bath is soothing and relaxed fun for most babies. The bath should not last longer than five to seven minutes, so that baby’s skin does not dry out too much in the water. During the first 6 weeks, it is enough just to use warm water. A dash of olive oil makes for a mild bath essence with oil-replenishing properties, while baby shampoo and a wash lotion that is carefully formulated for early childhood needs support the pleasant experience and prevent baby skin from losing moisture. After the bath, applying a rehydrating cream or nourishing oil helps the delicate skin restore its physiological balance and build a protective oil and moisture film. Even baby’s increased contact with water when swimming is a treat when the skin is thoroughly moisturised afterwards.
Gentle care of baby skin in the nappy area
Sensitive baby skin is especially vulnerable in the nappy area. Careful cleansing and regular care are essential in this region of the body. After cleansing and drying thoroughly, a nappy rash cream should be carefully applied to reddened spots. A well-fitting nappy which is changed in time prevents a moist environment from forming. A moist environment can irritate the skin and make it vulnerable to movement damage. Specially formulated care products support skin health and promote well-being: Gentle wipes help to keep baby skin clean and at the same time relieve the irritated area around the bottom with soothing moisture. Baby powder reduces itching and prevents irritation. A nappy rash cream repels moisture and helps ease redness and irritation. NIVEA taps into its long experience to develop exceptionally mild, effective and compatible care products for every age. NIVEA’s baby skin care range is specifically formulated to meet the needs of sensitive and delicate baby skin, supporting healthy development.
