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newborns

Q&A with the BabyCentre Community

18/12/2024

Did you know that a baby’s outermost layer of skin is 30% thinner than in an adult, and therefore requires extra-special care? Welcoming a new baby into the family is an exciting time for parents. But it can also be an overwhelming time, we have teamed up with the Baby Centre community to help answer some of your skin related concerns and what products to use for your newborn.

Question:

Are WaterWipes suitable straight from birth?

Answer:

Yes, WaterWipes contain simply two ingredients - 99.9% water and a drop of fruit extract, making them suitable for newborn and premature babies' delicate skin.

Question:

Are WaterWipes suitable for all skin types and also can they be used on other areas than bits and bum? (i.e. face)

Answer:

Yes, WaterWipes contain simply two ingredients - 99.9% water and a drop of fruit extract, making them suitable for use on other areas of the body, including the face.

Question:

Babies sometimes get irritated or peeling skin on their nappy area because the skin is so delicate. Are wipes really as gentle as water and cotton wool in such cases? What can be used to soothe?

Answer:

There are many possible reasons why your baby’s skin may peel, but in the case of persistent irritation or peeling skin, your baby’s skin should always be assessed and managed by your GP or Pediatrician for further advice. Minimal ingredients is an important factor here to avoid adding further discomfort - WaterWipes are gentle enough for affected skin, and our 7-stage water purification process ensures removal of any impurifications. It may also help to moisturize regularly with a gentle, fragrance-free baby lotion.

Question:

Why does my baby get red/sore in the folds of the skin in her nappy area? Is it best to use wipes for every nappy change or after using a wipe dry the area or only wipe after a bowel movement to prevent irritation. Creams help as a barrier but I personally prefer not to use them after every nappy change, thank you I look forward to hearing from you.

Answer:

A baby's skin is much thinner and more delicate than an adult's skin. There can be a number of reasons why you are experiencing this issue. Ensure the nappy size is not too small or tied too tightly which can cause rubbing or chaffing of the skin in this area. When cleaning your baby girl’s nappy, always wipe from front to back to prevent contamination with stool. WaterWipes are suitable for every nappy change due to their minimal ingredients and gentle formulation, however it is important that you dry the skin thoroughly - by patting dry instead of rubbing the area - before putting the clean nappy on. You can also include nappy free time when you have the opportunity during the day to allow the skin to breathe, it doesn't need to be before or after a bath. A lot of babies enjoy nappy free time - just make sure to have a towel underneath them in case they have any accidents and make sure the room is warm enough so they don't get cold. It is recommended that a thin layer of barrier cream or barrier spray is applied to dry skin after each nappy change to help prevent nappy rash. You can speak to your health visitor, pharmacist or GP to recommend one that is right for your baby.

Question:

Are WaterWipes effective for cleaning off meconium? Wondering if I should pack some of these in my hospital bag?

Answer:

Yes! We have had lots of feedback from midwives in the labour and delivery departments who advise parents to bring WaterWipes for cleaning off meconium when baby has their first poo. Meconium can be thick and sticky and cotton wool and water can often stick to it rather than clean it away.

Question:

What is a simple and effective bath and skin care routine to keep baby's skin well moisturised during the winter months?

Answer:

Keeping your baby well-moisturized and hydrated is key to avoiding skin conditions. Dehydration is one of the main causes of chapped baby lips and skin, so ensure your baby is drinking well and following a skin care routine can also help to avoid your baby's skin getting dry. Many healthcare professionals recommend avoiding baby skincare products until your baby is 4 weeks old, when your baby's skin has had time to mature naturally. Once old enough, use a non-perfumed moisturizer on them regularly that is specially formulated for babies. You can also find special lip balms for babies which might be helpful. Bathing your baby twice a week is more than enough, as too much water can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing it to dry out more. If your baby suffers from dry skin, your GP, Health Visitor or Pharmacist might recommend an emollient (moisturiser) for use in the bath rather than a baby wash to lock in moisture in the skin. WaterWipes are perfect for head to toe freshen ups between baths and are suitable for even the most sensitive skin with their gentle formulation and minimal ingredients. If the dry skin becomes scaly or inflamed it is best to ask your GP to review as eczema can be a common skin concern in babies.

Question:

Can skin allergies/conditions be passed on? I have dermatitis and have allergic reactions constantly, my baby has started getting dry skin but I don’t want to use anything in case his skin reacts like mine would

Answer:

Yes - atopic eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) – the most common type of eczema, often runs in families. If you yourself are prone to allergic reactions and already noticing your baby suffers from dry skin, your GP should review and possibly refer for a Dermatology consultation.

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