What should I do if my infant or young child has dry skin?
Disease description:
My baby is 8 months old, female. Recently, her skin has become especially dry, particularly on the cheeks and extremities, and she has developed some small red rashes. The condition hasn't improved even after applying moisturizing cream. What should I do?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Dry skin in infants and young children can be alleviated through daily skincare and appropriate interventions. The skin barrier function of infants and young children is not yet fully developed, making their skin prone to dryness due to external environmental influences. Dry air, frequent bathing, and the use of harsh cleansing products can all worsen dry skin conditions. Therefore, it is important to maintain suitable indoor humidity, avoid excessive cleaning, and choose mild, non-irritating skincare products.
Parents can take the following measures to improve their child's dry skin condition. Apply a baby-appropriate moisturizing cream daily, especially after bathing, to lock in moisture promptly. Bath water should not be too hot, and the bathing time should not be too long; it is recommended to use lukewarm water and fragrance-free, non-irritating baby-specific bath products. Regarding clothing, choose soft, breathable pure cotton fabrics and avoid materials such as wool that may cause irritation. If the child's skin dryness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as rashes or severe itching, timely medical attention should be sought. Maintaining good lifestyle habits and attentive care can help ensure the baby develops healthy, well-hydrated skin.
