Winter is almost here and while the thought of hot soup and nourishing stews is mouth-watering, the dry itchy skin that accompanies the colder weather isn't so appealing.
But what is about winter that brings the itches out?
Quite simply, it is the drop in humidity which causes skin to lose moisture. Then the heater comes out, add to that long hot showers and baths followed by rugging up in winter woollies. These all have an effect on skin, making conditions such as acne, cold sores, flaking and eczema worse.
If you have ever suffered from these conditions, you will know how horrendous it can be and you would do literally anything to stop the itch.
If this is how we feel, how must a babys' skin be feeling? Babies can't tell us that they are uncomfortable and usually it isn't until the skin has erupted in eczema that it's evident there is a problem. What is even worse is that babys', who already have very sensitive skin, are more prone to skin problems, particularly in winter.
As the main function of the skin is to protect against infection, by implementing a strict skincare routine that keeps your baby's skin moisturised at all times, you can lower their chances of future skin infections.
So the secret is - moisturise, moisturise, moisturise, and avoid triggers that can aggravate their sensitive skin, starting with bath time.
Bath time bliss
Babies do not need daily bathing in winter as this can further dry their skin by removing the natural oils needed for protection and preventing an eczema outbreak.
Follow the bath time routine below, to ensure your baby's skin stays smooth, supple and itch-free.
1. Use lukewarm water and keep bath time to a maximum of five minutes.
2. Use bath products that are soap free, fragrance free and low foaming. Either use a bath wash or bath oil that is suitable for sensitive skin. With so many products on the market you may need to try a few until you find one that is suitable to your needs.
Remember bubbles are trouble.
3. Don't use sponges as the friction can irritate the skin and trigger an eczema outbreak. Use only soft cotton wash cloths or better still use your hands to wash baby but do not rub the skin.
4. Pat baby's skin partially dry with a soft cotton towel, do not rub. Apply moisturiser within two to five minutes after bathing to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. This will also reduce eczema flare ups. Use a moisturiser that has no fragrance or essential oils and is suitable for sensitive skin. Once again, with so many products on the market you may need to try a few until you find one that is suitable to your needs.
5. Remember moisturise, moisturise, moisturise an absolute minimum of twice a day up to four times a day.
6. If baby has a prescribed eczema cream then apply this as per product instructions or doctors directions to eczema patches.
7. Dress baby in breathable clothing fabrics such as cotton or bamboo and ensure baby is not overheated.
What else can I do?
1. Try to avoid the heater or only have it to warm up the room and then switch it off. Try using a humidifier to add moisture to the air. You can purchase these from a pharmacy or baby retailer.
2. When dressing baby, stick to cotton garments and if you do have woollen jumpers don't allow baby's skin to have direct contact. Unfortunately wool is a huge trigger for baby's eczema.
3. When washing baby's clothes avoid using fabric softeners and perfumed washing powders. Look for hypo allergenic detergents and wash at 60 degrees to kill dust mites.
4. When putting baby to bed avoid over heating baby with a doona and use blankets instead.
With a few simple steps, and by making moisturiser your best friend, you can help baby beat winter itch.
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