New research findings to launch National Baby Skin Week – October 1st

Baby skin is often thought of as perfectly smooth, soft and flawless, however, new research from Comfort Pure reveals that over half (63%) of babies don’t have wonderful skin, with dryness, cradle cap and even eczema as the norm.

Despite the fact that most babies suffer from these common skin complaints, the strain on new mothers to have the ‘perfect’ baby with ‘perfect’ baby skin was felt by the respondents, as mums not only worry that sensitive skin can upset their babies, but are also concerned about how it reflects on them as mothers. Nearly half (45%) said they thought other people would judge the level of care they provide as mothers if their babies had less than perfect skin.

Some mothers (14%) are so worried of others’ disapproval that they even admit to disguising their baby’s skin complaint to avoid judgment. Over half of these have covered their baby’s head to conceal ‘imperfect’ skin. Knowing that sensitive skin and the problems it causes are normal doesn’t stop mums worrying: 34% feel anxious and worried when their babies have skin problems, while 20% even feel guilty.

Nappy rash causes worry for almost half of mums (46%), probably because it’s one of the most common skin conditions affecting small babies. Dry skin comes a close second, worrying 44% of mums, and eczema concerns 37% of parents.

However, there are some simple steps mums can take to help sooth sensitive skin and prevent some of the more common problems.

Family GP Dr Sarah Jarvis says: “To minimize nappy rash, change nappies frequently and apply barrier cream to protect skin from urine. Keep your baby’s skin open to the air indoors as much as possible and lie your baby on a towel to catch any spills.”

And she adds: “Strange as it may seem, water can dry your baby’s skin out. For the first few months of life, don’t bathe them every day. A bath every two or three days is fine, with ‘topping’ and ‘tailing’ in between.”

Eczema often worries new parents but Dr Jarvis says your family doctor can advise on the best emollients to use. “Simple unscented emollients are the mainstay of treatment for eczema. Use a soap substitute such as aqueous cream at bath time to avoid drying out your baby’s skin.”

Wash all clothes in non-bio washing powder such as Persil Non Bio and a fabric conditioner in the wash can keep the fibres of fabrics smoother, so clothes feel soft and gentle against the skin.

Say Dr Jarvis: “Consider using a fabric conditioner that has been designed for sensitive skin – the benefits of the softening effects on fibres can outweigh any possible risk of irritation by the ingredients.”

Comfort Pure is designed for babies, children and people with sensitive skin. It is hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, plus its skincare research is validated by the British Skin Foundation.

As winter is just around the corner, it’s also important to remember that this time of year can make babies more prone to dry, irritated skin with a number of factors playing a part.

Central heating tends to make the atmosphere dry, and can dry out your baby’s skin and wind can cause chapping.

Fortunately, simple measures can help to keep your child’s skin in tip-top condition: don’t bundle your child up to warmly. This can make him sweat, which can irritate the skin remember that the difference between outside and inside temperature is greatest in winter. Lots of layers of thin clothes will allow you to adjust his clothing to keep him at the right temperature never wear wool next to the skin use lots of unscented emollients, applied frequently during the day, if your child has dry skin