Source :NEWS18 NEWS
Last Updated:May 22, 2025, 16:53 IST
When it comes to newborn skincare, less is more — and safety is everything.
Newborn skincare should be as simple and natural as possible. Trust brands that are transparent about their ingredients, consult with your pediatrician when in doubt, and always follow your baby’s cues
A newborn’s skin is delicate, thin, and still developing its natural protective barrier. Which means the products you use in those early months need to be extra gentle, free of harsh chemicals, and tailored specifically for infant needs. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right ones?
According to Dr. Himanshu Gandhi, Co-founder and CEO, Mother Sparsh, “To redefine baby care through Indian traditions is to embrace the gentlest, safest and most nurturing touch, just like a mother’s love. Baby care solutions should carry this warmth, blending nature’s purity with ancient wisdom for the baby’s well-being.”
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1. Prioritize Natural, Gentle Ingredients
Nature knows best — especially when it comes to newborns. Choose products that use botanical or plant-based ingredients known for their soothing and nourishing properties. “Parents should avoid harsh additives like sulfates, parabens, dyes and alcohols, which can disrupt a newborn’s natural skin barrier,” says Shreya Mongia, Founder, Amorefy.
Instead, go for formulations containing mild moisturizers such as glycerin or panthenol, which help retain hydration without irritating the skin.
2. Avoid Artificial Fragrances and Essential Oils
Newborn skin is incredibly sensitive and can react to even mild scents. “Fragrance-free or mild formulations are always safer,” advises Dr. Gandhi. Essential oils, though natural, can be potent and may trigger allergies or skin sensitivity, especially in the early weeks.
3. Read Labels and Understand Ingredients
Both experts stress the importance of label literacy. “Fewer ingredients are often better — simple and gentle formulations help reduce the risk of allergic reactions or sensitivity,” notes Mongia. She also recommends checking for hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested labels, and steering clear of products that contain phthalates, parabens, sulfates, and alcohols.
4. Trust Tradition Backed by Science
Indian skincare wisdom, passed down through generations, often includes time-tested ingredients like turmeric, coconut oil, aloe vera, and neem. These are known for their anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and healing properties. “Indian ancient wisdom and natural ingredients offer safe, time-tested benefits for baby care,” says Dr. Gandhi.
Look for brands that honour these traditions while maintaining modern standards of safety and transparency.
5. Stick to Baby-Specific Products
Even if an adult product claims to be mild or for sensitive skin, it might not be suitable for newborns. “Newborn skincare requires formulations designed especially for their delicate needs,” Dr. Gandhi emphasizes. Stick to products that are specifically labelled for babies, particularly during the first few months.
6. Check for pH-Balanced Formulas
A newborn’s skin thrives in an environment that maintains its natural pH level — around 5.5. “Products that are pH-balanced help support and protect the baby’s skin barrier,” Mongia explains.
7. Always Patch Test First
Before using any new product, do a patch test on a small area of the baby’s skin. Watch for 24 hours to see if any redness, rash, or irritation develops. If everything looks good, you can start using it more regularly.
8. Hydration Is Key
Newborn skin loses moisture faster than adult skin. So whether it’s a gentle lotion or an oil-based balm, hydration is essential. “Ensure the product offers nurturing hydration that soothes and protects,” says Dr. Gandhi. He also recommends using natural oils like coconut or almond oil, only if they are pure, cold-pressed, and free from additives.
Newborn skincare should be as simple and natural as possible. Trust brands that are transparent about their ingredients, consult with your pediatrician when in doubt, and always follow your baby’s cues. As Shreya Mongia puts it, “The goal is to protect and nourish the skin gently — with newborn skincare, less is truly more.”
- First Published:
May 22, 2025, 16:53 IST
SOURCE : NEWS 18
