AS ADULTS, our skin can really suffer in summer, whether it's with everyday dryness or a nasty patch of sunburn, so it's even more important to make sure delicate baby skin is protected when the weather hots up.
"Having a baby during the summer months can bring an array of environmental factors which can potentially aggravate your little one's skin," says Dr Stefanie Williams, dermatologist and baby skincare expert for Aveeno.
"Simple things like increased sweating, indoor air conditioning and humid nights can play havoc with baby's delicate skin."
But if you follow a few simple steps, you can ensure your little one's complexion is healthy from top to toe.
Here, Dr Williams shares six tips on how to care for baby skin during summer.
1. Keep skin cool
Babies can be prone to overheating through the summer months as their sweat glands are still developing, and are therefore very sensitive. Bathing them in a short (five to 10 minutes), lukewarm bath each day can help to keep them cool and clean.
2. Moisturise mildly
As baby skin cannot retain moisture the same way an adult can, after bathing immediately apply a moisturiser to damp skin, to ensure baby's skin is kept hydrated. Use a slightly lighter emollient in the summer, such as Aveeno Baby Daily Care Moisturising Lotion (£2.99 Boots) as part of your baby's daily skincare routine to keep skin comfortable.
3. Avoid the sun
Babies under two should not be exposed to direct sun for long periods of time, even if wearing sunscreen. Covering your baby with breathable, natural material layers such as cotton (not wool), will help to keep baby cool while also protecting them from the sun.
4. Avoid irritants
If you notice your baby has dry patches on their skin, use products that have been created especially for sensitive skin. Look for those that are fragrance free, as fragrances are potential irritants.
5. Look out for cradle crap
Does your little one have a dry, flaky scalp? This could be cradle cap, a common skin condition that may begin in the first few weeks of life and can last several weeks or months. To help remove flakes of cradle cap, gently massage with a moisturising lotion to soften. Wait a few minutes and then comb gently to remove the flakes. Follow with a gentle wash, rinse thoroughly and then gently pat dry. Be extra gentle when massaging or washing around the fontanels, or soft spots, on your baby's head and seek advice from your doctor if the skin becomes inflamed or you have any other concerns.
6. Minimise eczema flare-ups
Does your family suffer from eczema? You'll be glad to hear that most children outgrow eczema before they start school. It's tricky to try to predict how long your little one will suffer with eczema, but the best thing to do is to try managing it and reducing flare-ups as much as possible, which can be done through following a good skincare routine using products created with sensitive, eczema-prone skin in mind. Certain lifestyle and environmental factors such as detergent contact and air conditioning, may aggravate the condition or trigger flare-ups.
