#asktheexpert my baby is 22 months she was fair before but now gradually decreasing skin color can I use orange oil and vit e oil together pls reply me if not pls prescribe some oils other than coconut olive almond

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Accepted Answer

Changes in skin color in young children can be due to various factors, including sun exposure, nutritional changes, or natural pigmentation changes as they grow. If you have concerns about your baby's skin color, it's essential to consult a pediatrician or dermatologist for advice.

Regarding the use of orange oil and vitamin E oil together, here are some considerations:

### Orange Oil and Vitamin E Oil:
- **Orange Oil**: Citrus oils, including orange oil, can be photosensitive, meaning they can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and potentially cause irritation or discoloration when exposed to UV light.
- **Vitamin E Oil**: Generally safe and moisturizing, it can help in skin healing and hydration.

### Recommendations:
1. **Use with Caution**:
   - **Patch Test**: Before using any new oils, perform a patch test on a small area of the baby's skin to check for any allergic reactions or irritation.
   - **Dilution**: Essential oils like orange oil should be diluted with a carrier oil (such as jojoba oil or grapeseed oil) before application to the skin, especially for children.
   - **Avoid Sun Exposure**: If using orange oil, avoid applying it on areas of the skin that will be exposed to sunlight to prevent photosensitivity.

2. **Alternative Oils**:
   - **Jojoba Oil**: Gentle and hypoallergenic, jojoba oil is good for moisturizing and protecting the skin.
   - **Grapeseed Oil**: Lightweight and easily absorbed, it is rich in antioxidants and can help keep the skin soft and supple.
   - **Olive Oil**: A natural moisturizer with vitamins and antioxidants, suitable for dry skin.
   - **Shea Butter**: Though not an oil, shea butter is excellent for deeply moisturizing the skin.

### General Tips for Skin Care:
- **Hydration**: Ensure your child is well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- **Balanced Diet**: Provide a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which can contribute to healthy skin.
- **Gentle Cleansing**: Use mild, fragrance-free soaps and cleansers to avoid irritating the skin.
- **Sun Protection**: Apply a baby-safe sunscreen when going outside to protect from UV rays.

### When to Consult a Doctor:
- **Persistent Changes**: If the skin discoloration persists or worsens, or if there are other symptoms like rashes, itching, or changes in behavior, consult a pediatrician or dermatologist.
- **Underlying Conditions**: If there's a possibility of an underlying health issue affecting skin color, medical advice is crucial.

Using natural oils can be beneficial for moisturizing and protecting your baby’s skin, but it’s important to choose the right ones and use them appropriately. Always consider consulting healthcare professionals before starting any new skin care regimen for your child.