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How to deal with your baby's seasonal skin changes

Becoming a mom is a beautiful experience – but it can also be overwhelming, especially when your newborn’s soft, delicate skin suddenly starts to act up. From dry patches and heat rash to unexplained redness, seasonal changes can bring a whole new set of skin challenges for your little one. Here, Sanosan shares tips and tricks on how to cope with these challenges. 

According to Sanosan, a skincare brand specially formulated for babies, understanding how the different seasons affect your baby’s skin is the first step to keeping them comfortable and protected all year round.

A newborn’s skin is about 30% thinner than adult skin. That means it loses moisture more easily and reacts faster to environmental changes like cold, heat, humidity, and even the wind. Each season comes with its own challenges – but the good news is that there are simple ways to protect your baby’s skin through it all.

Seasonal tips

In colder months, the drop in humidity and the use of heaters can strip your baby’s skin of its natural moisture, leading to dry, flaky, or even cracked skin. Babies may also experience chapped cheeks or lips, especially if exposed to cold winds. 

What helps:

  • Use a gentle, fragrance-free baby lotion or cream daily, ideally one with natural oils like olive oil or panthenol, known for soothing and protecting baby skin.
  • Avoid long, hot baths – lukewarm water and a mild baby wash will do the trick.
  • Dress baby in layers and keep skin covered when outside.

When temperatures rise, so do the chances of heat rash – those tiny red bumps that show up in the folds of your baby’s skin. This is caused by blocked sweat glands and is most common in the neck, armpits, and nappy area.

What helps:

  • Dress baby in light, breathable cotton clothing.
  • Keep baby in cool, shaded areas when possible.
  • Bathe regularly in lukewarm water with a calming wash to help cool and cleanse the skin.
  • Skip the talc powders – opt for creams specifically designed to reduce friction in skin folds if needed.

The in-between seasons can be tricky. One day it’s sunny and dry, the next it’s windy and cool. Pollen, dust, and other allergens are also more active in spring, which may cause mild skin irritation or flare-ups in babies with sensitive skin.

What helps:

  • Keep an eye on pollen counts if your baby is prone to eczema or sensitive skin.
  • Moisturise regularly to create a barrier against environmental irritants.
  • Wash hands and faces after outdoor time to remove pollen or dust.
@dr.zenamalinga Babies have delicate skin that needs extra care. Who better to offer expert advice on baby skincare than a dermatologist? Tune in—you might learn something new today! With @drnelliepaeds #BabySkinCare #DermatologistTips #SkinHealth #ExpertAdvice #DelicateSkin #SkincareForBabies #HealthySkin #ParentingTips #Dermatology #drzenamalinga ♬ original sound - R.M Phoolo

Sanosan emphasises the importance of using skincare products that are specifically made for babies. 

“Adult lotions or harsh soaps can do more harm than good. Look for dermatologically tested, pH-balanced baby products that are free from parabens, silicones, and artificial fragrances. Sanosan products, for example, are formulated with natural ingredients like hydrolysed milk protein and organic olive oil to nurture and protect delicate baby skin.”

Most skin concerns in newborns are harmless and will clear up with proper care. But if you notice signs of infection, persistent rash, swelling, or your baby seems unusually fussy or uncomfortable, it's best to check with your paediatrician.

As a new mom, it’s easy to second-guess yourself, especially when your baby’s skin doesn’t look picture-perfect. Just remember – a few bumps, flakes, or rashes are completely normal. With the right knowledge and gentle care, you can help your baby stay happy and comfortable in every season.

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