Recommendation for neonate and infant skincare

Skincare for neonates and infants is essential due to their more delicate and permeable skin compared to adults. It is important to use mild, fragrance-free products to protect their sensitive skin barrier. Key skincare practices include gentle cleansing, regular moisturization, proper diaper care, suitable clothing, and maintaining a controlled environment. Bathing infants should occur 2 to 3 times a week to avoid over-drying; daily baths are unnecessary unless the baby is dirty. Baths should last 5 to 10 minutes using lukewarm water.

Moisturization is vital for keeping infant skin soft, preventing dryness, and reducing flakiness. Effective moisturizers typically contain humectants, emollients, and occlusives for long-lasting hydration. It is recommended to use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and mildly acidic moisturizers right after bathing to lock in moisture. Emollients with ceramides or hyaluronic acid are particularly beneficial for infant skin. Moisturizers should be applied at least once a day, or more often if the skin appears dry.

Infant skin is sensitive and can easily react to harsh chemicals, detergents, and fragrances. Therefore, using products specifically designed for infants, which are hypoallergenic and free of irritants, is essential to minimize the risk of allergic reactions or irritation. Regular application of barrier creams and emollients, especially after diaper changes, helps maintain skin integrity and prevent rashes.

Creating an optimal environment is also important for infant skin health. Moderate humidity levels should be maintained to prevent dryness, and room temperature should be comfortable to avoid overheating or chilling, both of which can irritate sensitive skin. Protecting infants from sun exposure is crucial; they should be kept out of direct sunlight with protective clothing, hats, and shade. For infants over six months, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to exposed skin is recommended to protect against harmful UV rays.

Source: Choi EH. Skin Barrier Function in Neonates and Infants. Allergy Asthma Immunol Res. 2025 Jan;17(1):32-46. doi: 10.4168/aair.2025.17.1.32. PMID: 39895601; PMCID: PMC11791375.