Best for baby? Skincare tips for newbornsIn the past parents have felt duty-bound to use products, thinking they were 'best' for baby. Research now tells us that 'less is most definitely more' and by taking care to reduce exposure in the first few weeks, we are giving our babies skin time to mature naturally. Sharon Trotter, mum and midwife, has set out these guidelines for care of your newborn.
With this in mind, it is easy to see how our children, and especially babies, could be at even greater risk, due to their innate vulnerabilities. Their skin is thinner, their immune systems are immature and they are subjected to a myriad of chemicals from the moment they are born. Is it any wonder that the rates of eczema, asthma and related allergies have continued to rise year on year, alongside an explosion of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products? The time has come to stop and reflect on the need for these products that come with dubious promises and ever more sophisticated marketing. If we allowed newborn skin a chance to develop its own protective barrier, we would give it a 'head-start' to cope with the modern world.
My guidelines are simple to follow, evidence-based and above all common sense. The basic message is to use 'water-only' for the first month of life. It should also be remembered that anything placed on, in or around an infant has the potential to, which is why advice about feeding, washing clothes and cordcare is also included. These guidelines are thought to be the first of their kind in the UK and it is hoped that other units will soon adopt this advice. They bring together basic tips on skincare; cord care and feeding that will hopefully avoid confusion and lead to a fall in referrals to skin specialists. In the past parents have felt duty-bound to use products, thinking they were 'best' for baby. Research now tells us that 'less is most definitely more' and by taking care to reduce exposure in the first few weeks, we are giving our babies skin time to mature naturally. This may sound blindingly obvious but we often ignore the obvious, even when it is staring us in the face.
From May 2004, NHS Ayrshire & Arran, where I practise, will stop supplying baby products within the maternity unit. There is no available evidence to justify the use of such products on newborn infants and, as such, they are not relevant to their care.
General tips1.Before and after carrying out any baby-care, especially cord care, it is important to wash hands thoroughly. 2. First baths will now be carried out using plain water and cotton wool. This will help to protect the delicate skin while it is vulnerable to germs, chemicals and water loss. A baby comb can be used to gently remove any debris from thick hair after delivery. Please bring a baby comb into hospital with you. 3. It is best to leave the delicate area around the eyes untouched. 4. If it does become sticky, please notify a member of staff and they will advise you. The ears and nose should also be left alone and cotton buds should be avoided. Vernix (the white sticky substance that covers your baby's skin in the womb) should always be left to absorb naturally. This is nature's own moisturiser. Premature babies skin is even more delicate, so it is important to withhold all products until their approximate due date, as their skin takes longer to mature. The staff in the Neonatal Unit (NNU) will be happy to advise you. 5. If your baby is overdue, his/her skin may well be dry and cracked. This is to be expected, as the protective vernix has all been absorbed. Don't be tempted to use any creams or lotions as this may do more harm than good. The top layer of the baby's skin will peel off over the next few days, leaving perfect skin underneath. Continue with plain water for the first month. Cord care for the healthy term babyKeep this area clean and dry. The best way to achieve this is to leave the area alone. After the first bath in plain water, pat dry with a clean towel and fold back the nappy, at each change, until the cord separates. In the first few days, it is advisable to top'n'tail your baby to allow the cord to dry out. Wet Cotton wool can be used if the area becomes soiled, otherwise leave alone. There is no need to use any wipes or powders. The cord clamp may or may not be removed depending on hospital policy. If the cord or surrounding area does become red or smelly, notify a member of staff. This advice is based on the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations published in 1999. Cord Care for the sick or premature babyThis may differ slightly, due to the increased risk of infection. Antiseptic solutions and/or powders may be used for the first few days. Otherwise cord care should be the same as for any other baby. Be guided by staff in the NNU and they will advise you on the best possible care for your baby. · Continue bathing your baby in plain water for the first month before gradually introducing baby products. By this time the skins natural barrier will have developed. These products should be free from colours and perfumes and strong perfumes. Baby wipes should also be avoided for the first month. Once introduced, try to use ones, which are mild and free from alcohol and strong perfumes. · Shampoo is not necessary when your baby is under a year old. Once you have introduced baby products, simply rinse your baby's hair in the bath water solution. · A thin layer of barrier cream can be used, if required, on the nappy area. If after a few weeks you wish to use a moisturiser, choose products that are emollient based. These will not dry out the skin, but they will give it some protection. Wash all baby clothes and bedding in non-biological washing powder. Fabric conditioners, if used, should be mild and free from colours and strong perfumes. Where to next?
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There
has been a lot written in the media about the worrying effects of chemicals
in our everyday lives. Recently, a national newspaper described this as
a 'Chemical soup', which is a good description as it includes the food
we eat, the clothes we wear and the cosmetics we use to keep clean and
groomed. 
