Got a Kid With Sensitive Skin? Here Are 5 Things You Can Do to Help
It’s not easy for parents to see their child’s soft skin turn red, itchy or flaky. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help. Here are five tips for helping your mini cope with sensitive skin.
1. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Sensitive skin can often be dry or itchy, so using a cream or lotion is key to help lock in moisture (we recommend a fragrance-free or hypoallergenic option). Do this morning and night, especially after bathing when your child’s skin is still damp. Tip: Gently pat skin dry with a towel (don’t rub) before applying the cream.
2. Use Lukewarm Water
Speaking of bath time, make sure that the water you use on your babe’s delicate skin isn’t too hot. That’s because hot water can easily dry out the skin and strip away its natural oils. And if possible, try to keep her time in the tub short and sweet (think: a 10-minute splash a couple of times per week and not an hour-long soak every evening).
3. Use a Laundry Detergent Designed for Sensitive Skin
To help avoid potential irritation for your child’s sensitive skin, choose a gentle laundry detergent like the new All® Free Clear Clean & Care. It’s the #1 brand recommended by dermatologists, allergists and pediatricians for sensitive skin, and has a keratin-enriched formula that smooths fibers to promote elasticity. And there’s no need to run a separate load for your mini—the formula is kind to skin but it’s tough on stains (meaning it will tackle your kid’s mud marks from his T-shirt and that coffee spill from your blouse).
4. Stay Safe in the Sun
Kids with delicate skin may be particularly sensitive to the sun. As such, you want to make sure that they are adequately protected on sunny days. Per the American Academy of Dermatology, you can do this by avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., wearing sun-protective clothing (including a hat!) and applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
5. Check With Your Doctor
Check with your child’s pediatrician to rule out any skin conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, or eczema. You may also want to make sure that your child doesn’t have any food allergies that are causes a rash.
