How to Treat Dry Skin in Babies

Dry skin can be a big problem for babies & kids. Children can get dry skin more easily as young skin is more susceptible to dryness. Human skin generates natural oil which keeps it lubricated and soft, but since kids skin is not fully developed, it is not able to produce enough oil to keep it moisturized which can lead to dry skin, itching and irritated skin. In this article, we will focus on the causes, symptoms and cure for treating dry skin in babies & kids.

Causes of dry skin

There can be many reasons because of which children can develop dry skin for e.g.

• Exposure to changing cold outdoor air and warm & dry indoor heating

• Chlorine in pool water

• Life style

• Use of certain medicines

• Dry atmospheric conditions

• Too much bathing and use of soapy water

• Exposure to wet diaper for a long time

• Medical condition like eczema

Symptoms of dry skin

• Dry patchy skin

• Irritation

• Itchiness

• Sensitivity to touch

• Crack and flaky skin

• Scaling on skin

• patches in elbow, behind the knee or face is a sign of eczema

How to Cure Dry Skin

• Use products that contain both water and oils with no added fragrances or too many chemical.

• Apply moisturizer after the bath when your child’s skin is still slightly damp

• Don’t overheat the house during winter

• Reduce the bath time, hence reducing exposure time to water.

• Rinse off your child with tap water after swimming.

• If you home is dry, use a cool mist humidifier in your child’s room

• Apply moisturizer immediately after shower.

• Choose non alcoholic based moisturizers and ointments.

• Apply and reapply ointments at least two or three times a day.

• Use gloves in winter to protect hands and exposure to cold weather

• Drink sufficient water to keep body hydrated.

• Don’t use perfumes or powder and consider unscented laundry products.

• while rinsing kids clothes, try removing all residue of laundry soap.

• Avoid tight and rough clothing especially fabrics such as wool, synthetic.

• Use cotton layered clothing as much possible

• Keep your kid’s nails clean and short.

Dry skin can be very irritating for your child because of their low tolerance to itchiness and discomfort. They can become cranky and much difficult to deal with over the time. If this condition stays longer, especially if it is red or irritated, you should see your pediatrician or get extra help from a pediatric dermatologist.