Skin Care

Babies' skin is soft and sensitive and requires special, gentle care. Keep things simple.

Newborn skin can be flaky, dry, pimply, blotchy, have rashes and be quite sweaty.
They often have 'hormone rashes', these are probably due to the fact they have been in the womb for some time. Now their bodies are working things out and they are getting used to the outside world.
Using creams will not necessarily get rid of these skin rashes, spots etc. Your baby's skin should improve and settle down in the first 3 months without any intervention.

Just use water. After a few weeks, babies begin to relax in the bath.
No need to use baby bath soaps or lotions every day. Once every 3 days is enough.
No need to cover in creams. Better to let the skin breathe naturally.
No need to use powder. If you do, be careful not to blow it on baby, as they may inhale it.
If you want to use some creams or oils for dry spots - think about using natural vegetable oils, eg. Olive oil or pawpaw cream. Many creams and oils are made up of paraffin, which is petroleum based. Read labels thoroughly prior to applying to your baby's sensitive skin.

Wash new clothes before baby starts to wear them.
Wash clothes in a gentle, non-irritating soap, such as Lux flakes.
Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can contain strong chemicals.
Put baby's clothes through a second rinse cycle.
Most sunscreen creams are for babies over 12 months, so the best solution is to keep baby OUT OF THE SUN.
Dress baby in 100% cotton whenever possible.
Put a hat on baby when going out.