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The winter season brings many changes that affect health and well-being. Seasonal changes are drastic, be it falling temperatures, low humidity levels, or increasing pollution. One of the most noticeable effects is dry skin, which affects many people. However, infants are more sensitive than adults and may experience worse.
To understand how parents can protect their children and safeguard their skin health during this time, HT Lifestyle got in touch with experts who shared their insights to provide a comprehensive picture of the issue.
Also read: Dietitians tell what to eat to prevent dry skin in winter: Chia seeds, bananas and more
What causes dry skin?
Dr. Mohana Chauhan, consultant dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Prakash Hospital, Noida, told HT Lifestyle that the sensitive nature of the baby is responsible for the dryness of the skin.
,During winter, baby skin tends to dry out very fast because it is extremely thin and sensitive, and there is very little moisture in the cold air,” she explained. “When the air itself is dry, the skin quickly loses hydration. This often gets worse if moisturizing is not done regularly or immediately after showering.”
This means parents need to adapt baby’s skin care routine during winter to prevent dryness. It also highlights the importance of timely care to deal with the harsh weather conditions and avoid any negative consequences.
preventive measures
The dermatologist shared some tips to clear up common misconceptions and clarify some widespread myths that can harm skin health.
The first thing Dr. Chauhan noted was the increased frequency of hot baths, which can have adverse effects. She adds, “Many parents also feel that a long or hot bath will soothe their baby in winter, but hot water actually strips the skin of its natural protective oils.,
Second, parents often keep their babies bundled up in the winter, but over-layering can be risky. According to dermatologists, heavy layers can irritate the skin and cause dryness.
Similarly, to keep warm indoors, heaters and blowers are usually turned on, but Dr. Chauhan warned that they can make skin feel tight, flaky, or itchy.
Instead, she recommended, “Parents should limit bath time, use lukewarm water, moisturize generously immediately after bathing, dress children in light, breathable layers, and maintain some humidity in the room.,
Additionally, bringing insight into the latest practices in baby care, Chandra Shekhar, Founder, CuteStory, shared with HT Lifestyle the trends that parents are following to keep their babies’ skin healthy during winters. She stressed the importance of using fragrance-free, pH-neutral cleansers and bathing for about 5-10 minutes in lukewarm water to protect the skin’s natural barrier. Parents are also focusing on dressing babies in soft, 100 percent cotton clothes to protect them from irritation and using cool-mist humidifiers indoors to maintain humidity levels between 40-60 percent, which helps prevent water loss from the skin.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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