Understanding the Infant Skin Barrier

Neonatal and infant skin differs markedly from adult skin in both structure and function. It is thinner, more permeable, and biologically less mature, rendering it particularly vulnerable to irritants, infections, and transepidermal water loss. These inherent characteristics underscore the need for vigilant care during early life, a period when the skin barrier plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall health.

A key determinant of skin integrity is surface pH, which undergoes significant transitions after birth. The gradual shift from a neutral to a more acidic pH supports microbiome development, enzymatic activity, and barrier maturation. Disruptions in this acidification process can predispose infants to inflammatory conditions, most notably atopic dermatitis (AD). The growing body of evidence linking early-life barrier dysfunction to AD highlights the importance of protective skincare strategies from birth.

Despite meaningful advances in our understanding of infant skin biology, several knowledge gaps remain. Identifying optimal moisturizer formulations and application regimens to fortify the barrier and prevent AD is a pressing priority. Equally important is exploring how interventions—such as probiotics or microbiome-supportive skincare products—may enhance barrier integrity and reduce disease risk. Finally, the future of neonatal skincare lies in personalization: tailoring regimens to factors such as genetic predisposition, gestational age, and environmental exposures.

Developing evidence-based, individualized skincare practices for neonates and infants will be critical to improve clinical outcomes and support lifelong skin health.

Source: Allergy Asthma ImmunolRes . 2025 Jan 15;17(1):32–46.