How to prevent dry skin in children, this winter
In winter children suffer from dry skin just like adults. Child’s skin is soft and sensitive and must be taken care of properly especially during winters. Sometimes dry skin can cause itching and rashes as well. Dry skins can also lead to becoming eczema if ignored for long.
Here are some ways to prevent dry skin in children.
#1. Cut back on bath time
Bathing generally dries the skin by washing out natural oil from the skin along with the dirt. Everyday bathing is fine as long as it is under 5 minutes. You can also go for alternate day bathing. Though it is tempting to use using hot water use only warm water to prevent skin from drying out. Make use of mild baby soap which is not hard on skin. Also, don’t let your baby sit in soapy water for a long time.
#2. Apply natural moisturizer
After the children are out from the bath, pat dry her with a soft towel, don’t rub. Apply a good baby lotion immediately. The moisturizer will seal in the moisture and oil present in the child skin and will also avoid dry skin. Moisturizing of skin should be done within 2-5 minutes after the bath.
You can also consider moisturizing the skin with good baby massage oils, twice a day. One immediately after bathing and one during the daytime possibly after 6 hours gap. Use an alcohol-free moisturizer or a homemade one as it will work more effectively on the skin.
#3. Avoid salt or Chlorine water
Salt or Chlorine water can quickly dry the skin and can also create burning sensation. If your child comes in contact with chlorine water rinse well with tap water and pats dry. Immediately apply moisturizer to protect the skin.
#4. Increase water intake
Keep your children well hydrated by offering them plenty of water and juices. This water will be helpful in replenishing the moisture of the skin. Drinking water and moisturizing skin both are equally important to prevent dry skin.
#5. Protect children from external environment
Dress your children in layers of clothes during winters by making them wear mittens, gloves, full sleeve sweaters. This will prevent their skin from becoming dry and chapped due to the wind. Children hate wearing caps, that’s why their faces become easily shaped. Coax them to wear one before leaving the house.
#6.Choose Fabric Wisely
Temperature changes can adversely affect your child’s skin. You should select a soft and comfortable fabric made from 100 % cotton. Avoid satin and taffeta completely. Dress-up the child comfortably and let their skin breathe in the afternoons when the Sun is out.
The indoor air during winters become dry and can lead to dry skin in children. Run a humidifier to refresh your home with cool mist during winters. This will prevent the indoor air getting dry.
#8. Include Lots of Vegetable and Fruits in your Child’s Diet
Vegetable and fruits like carrot, apple, tomato, apricots, grapefruit are great sources of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is the best option for good skin and including it in your child’s diet will reduce the chances of dry skin very much.
#9. Massage daily
While it is difficult in winters to give massage and keep the baby uncovered, try to give your baby a massage in the Sun daily. Use a good baby massage oil to ensure that your baby’s skin remains healthy and supple.
#10. Visit a dermatologist
Itchy, dry and patchy skin is warning sign of eczema or dermatitis. It is advisable to consult a doctor if the child feels very uncomfortable and itchy.
How do you prevent dry skin in children during winters? Share below!
Anjana Bhartia is a mommy blogger at MommyRepublic.in She describes herself as an imperfect mom stumbling through motherhood, discovering the joys of natural and attachment parenting along the way.