#asktheexpert hello mam my baby is now 1 month old... when she born her skintone is so fair after few days skin become dull but the color of her hands and feet is fair.. so I want to ask which color she gets... my two kids me and my husband all are fair in color. .. so plz rply

Question

Accepted Answer

It's common for a newborn's skin tone to change in the first few weeks after birth. Many babies are born with lighter or "fair" skin that can appear darker or more "dull" as the skin begins to adjust to the outside world. This can happen due to factors such as:

1. Vernix: At birth, babies are covered with a waxy substance called vernix, which can make their skin look lighter. As the vernix is absorbed or wiped away, the baby's true skin tone becomes more apparent.

2. Jaundice: Some babies experience mild jaundice, which can cause the skin to appear slightly yellow, giving it a dull look. This is typically temporary and resolves as the baby’s liver matures.

3. Skin Adaptation: After birth, a baby's skin starts to adjust to the environment outside the womb. This can result in temporary changes in skin appearance, such as dryness or a change in tone.

4. Hands and Feet: It's common for babies' hands and feet to appear lighter than the rest of their body, especially in the early weeks. This is due to less circulation in the extremities at birth.

Skin Color Changes Over Time:

A baby's skin color can continue to change in the first year, and it may become more even and reflective of their genetic background.

If your baby was born fair and the skin tone appears dull or darker now, there’s no need to worry. It’s a normal part of development, and your baby's true skin color will typically become clearer over time.

What You Can Do:

Moisturize: To help maintain healthy skin, you can use a gentle, baby-safe moisturizer to prevent dryness and irritation.

Sun Protection: Even though your baby has fair hands and feet, avoid direct sun exposure to protect her delicate skin.

If you have concerns about your baby’s skin or any unusual changes, it’s always best to consult your pediatrician for reassurance.