Dubai: Dry skin is fairly common in infants but under-recognised. We all imagine baby skin to be smooth, soft and amazing to smell. To the naked eye, it might not look dry. But in reality, it can be very dry and sensitive and most often moms are unable to tell until the problem becomes more serious and needs medical attention. In a study conducted by Johnson’s Baby, 80 per cent of mothers did not know that their baby’s skin was dry.
The most common signs of dry baby skin are peeling and flaking but sometimes it is just the feel of the skin when you touch it. If your baby seems to be itchy, keep an eye on the areas.
Skin conditions are not simple cosmetic issues, especially not for babies. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and protects the baby against infections, water loss and the penetration of irritants and allergens.
Dry skin can make the baby uncomfortable and fussy and if it’s left untreated, it can lead to skin irritation and compromise the skin barrier. Your baby’s skin barrier is the first line of defence from the outside world. To remain healthy, it is important for the skin to remain properly hydrated.
Baby skin is so delicate that it is more prone to becoming dry and irritated than adult skin. After birth, infant skin suffers a progressive adaptation to the external environment and until it is fully developed, it needs special care. In fact, the skin continues to develop beyond the age of two years old.
On an average, baby skin is up to 30 per cent thinner than adult skin and it loses moisture up to two times faster than adults. Baby skin also has a more neutral pH level, resulting in reduced protection.
In the first few weeks of life, certain factors such as the development of skin flora and other skin-regulating mechanisms lower its initial pH value. The defence of the acid mantle against harmful microorganisms does not work adequately during the first few months.
Baby skin dryness is an even bigger problem in the Middle East. The heat, humidity and constant exposure to air conditioning during the long summer months can affect the skin.
Desalinated tap water is harsh on baby skin. Hard water can often lead to different forms of skin dryness and irritation. If your child has itchy red patches, it could be a sign of eczema.
The writer is shopper marketing manager, consumer health brands, Johnson & Johnson, MENAP Dubai
