How to Choose a Baby Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin

One of the joys of motherhood is cuddling your baby and feeling their soft, sweet-smelling skin. However, infant skin is also very fragile and susceptible to a myriad of problems, such as dryness, rashes, and irritation. Using the right moisturizer for sensitive skin can help nourish and protect your baby’s delicate complexion.

With the many options on the market, finding the best moisturizing lotion for your little one can be overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. Where to start? Below are some useful pointers on what to look for.

Skin is at its most sensitive state during the first year of life. The natural barrier of baby skin is much thinner than an adult’s, making it sensitive to external irritants. Choosing your baby products wisely is crucial. A hypoallergenic product is void of common allergens and harsh chemicals that can potentially cause rashes. If your bub has developed eczema, a hypoallergenic moisturizer may help minimize the risk of flare-ups as it contains fewer active ingredients.

There’s no better guarantee of a baby lotion’s suitability for sensitive skin than a doctor’s seal of approval. Keep an eye out for products with “dermatologist-tested” and “pediatrician-approved” written on them. These labels indicate that the formula meets the requirements of experts and is unlikely to cause adverse effects.

One of the most common tests to earn the approval of dermatologists is the Human Repeated Insult Patch (HRIPT). The process involves repeated application of the product to human skin. Aside from checking the product’s safety, scientists also examine the lotion’s texture and absorbability – all for your little cherub’s comfort.

While a doctor’s approval is a significant factor in choosing a baby moisturizer for sensitive skin, every baby’s skin reacts uniquely to the same product. What suits one might not suit another. Therefore, it’s advisable to do a patch test by applying a small amount of the lotion on the inside of your bub’s elbow, behind the knee, or at the back of their neck.

Once applied, wait 12 to 24 hours before bathtime to allow the product to work its way into the skin. Any redness could be a sign that your baby’s skin is sensitive to certain ingredients in the lotion.

If the product is dermatologist-approved and has a hypoallergenic formula, do you need to go over the ingredients list, too? The answer is a definite yes. Scan for any questionable ingredients, specifically parabens and phthalates. The former is associated with changes in thyroid hormone levels and disrupted metabolism, according to a 2019 study. Meanwhile, phthalate exposure can increase the risks of asthma and neurodevelopmental disorders in infants.

You can do a quick Google search to learn more about the ingredients listed in the product. Additionally, read the reviews online to see if other parents have reported any side effects. It’s an extra step that can give you an extra layer of confidence.

Half the stress of traveling with a baby is making sure they’re comfortable. From packing toys to breast pumps, every detail matters. One thing that you shouldn’t overlook is a baby moisturizer for sensitive skin. Whenever your wee darling’s skin starts feeling dry, you can apply it without any fuss.

Make sure to have compact baby lotion in your bag. Most of them also feature sealing mechanisms so you don’t have to worry about leaks or messes. Plus, it’s easier to apply with one hand while you’re holding your baby. Consider transferring your products into travel-friendly containers that best suit your needs.

Moreover, don't skip the skincare routine! Start by washing your baby with Baby Dove Hair To Toe Rich Soothing Moisture. This cleanser is as gentle as water and approved by dermatologists, ophthalmologists, and pediatricians. It also has Dove’s signature ¼ moisturizing cream that soothes irritation and keeps the skin supple.

After bathing your baby, immediately apply the baby moisturizer for sensitive skin. Baby Dove Rich Moisture Lotion checks all the boxes above, from the ingredients to the packaging. It boasts a hypoallergenic and pH-neutral formula that leaves your baby’s skin smooth and moisturized for up to 24 hours. What’s next? Lots of snuggles and kisses for the little one!