#asktheexpert hello maam..my son has itching problem due to dry skin...and in winters this is more due to warm clothes plz tell me anything

Question

Accepted Answer

Itching due to dry skin, especially in winter, is common as the cold air and indoor heating can strip moisture from your baby's skin. Additionally, warm clothes may trap heat and cause irritation, exacerbating the dryness and itchiness. Here are a few steps you can take to help soothe your baby's skin:

1. Moisturize Regularly:

Use a thick, gentle moisturizer: Choose a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic baby lotion or cream with ingredients like petrolatum, glycerin, or ceramide. Apply it generously to your baby’s skin after bathing and throughout the day, especially in areas prone to dryness.

Apply immediately after bath: Pat your baby’s skin dry with a towel after a bath and apply moisturizer while the skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture.

2. Avoid Hot Baths:

Use lukewarm water for your baby's bath. Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and make dryness worse.

Limit bath time: Keep baths short (5-10 minutes) to avoid drying out the skin.

3. Clothing:

Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton for your baby's clothes. Wool or synthetic fabrics can irritate sensitive skin.

Dress in layers: Avoid overdressing your baby. Layering allows you to adjust the clothing if they get too warm. Opt for lighter, breathable fabrics under the warm layers.

4. Use a Humidifier:

Increase humidity indoors: Use a humidifier in your baby’s room to add moisture to the air, which helps prevent the skin from drying out due to indoor heating.

5. Monitor for Allergies or Eczema:

If the itching and dryness persist despite these measures, it could be a sign of eczema or an allergy. If this is the case, consult your pediatrician, who may recommend a topical steroid or other treatment to reduce inflammation.

6. Avoid Harsh Soaps:

Use mild, fragrance-free baby soaps that are formulated for sensitive skin to prevent further drying or irritation.

By keeping your baby's skin moisturized, avoiding irritants, and dressing them in comfortable layers, you can reduce the itching and help soothe dry skin during the winter months.