When you bring your baby home, everything about them feels so delicate — and their skin is no exception. Babies are born with sensitive skin that requires (simple) extra care, but knowing how to protect it can feel overwhelming for new parents. From dry skin to diaper rashes, it can sometimes seem like there’s always a new irritation to worry about.

The good news? Babies skin is actually very basic so with a few simple tips, you can keep their skin healthy, hydrated and rash free.

Common Baby Skin Issues

• • Diaper Rash: Redness and irritation in the diaper area is common, often from moisture or friction.
  • Dry Skin: Babies can develop dry, flaky skin, especially in colder months or after baths.
  • Baby Acne: Small red or white bumps on the face, often appearing in the first few weeks.
  • Eczema: Patches of dry, itchy skin, sometimes triggered by allergies or irritants.
  • Cradle Cap: Yellow, scaly patches on the scalp, common in newborns.

It’s very common to see some (or all) of these issues at some point when you have a baby/newborn. You don’t need to be alarmed, but it’s a sign you may want to adjust your routine to make sure you’re treating their skin in the most effective way.

How to Care for Your Baby’s Skin

Keep Bath Time Simple:

• • Limit baths to 3-4 times a week for newborns to prevent drying out their skin.
  • Use lukewarm water and fragrance-free, gentle baby soap.
  • Pat your baby dry instead of rubbing their skin.
  • On days when you don’t do a bath, you can use a wet washcloth to help them get clean (hello spit up!) without drying out their skin

Moisturize Often:

• • Use fragrance-free baby lotion or a gentle moisturizer after baths and as needed.
  • Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness (cheeks, hands, and legs).
  • If you notice their skin is dry or you live in a cold climate, moisturize more often if you need to.

Change Diapers Frequently:

• • Wet diapers left on too long can cause rashes.
  • Use diaper cream containing zinc oxide as a barrier when needed.
  • Give your baby some diaper-free time to let their skin breathe.
  • If you use cloth diapers, they’re less likely to get diaper rash and may not need diaper cream.

Dress in Breathable Fabrics:

• • Choose cotton clothing to reduce irritation.
  • Avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and moisture.

Protect from the Elements:

• • Use baby-safe sunscreen if your baby is 6 months or older.
  • For younger babies, keep them shaded and covered with a lightweight blanket. Many strollers and basinets also have sun shades for when they’re outside.
  • Once you get in to a bath/lotion routine you’ll likely find that caring for your baby’s skin is super simple and straightforward. A baby skin routine really only takes a few minutes so don’t stress over the timing of it. Like with anything new baby, it just takes some time to get into the routine before it feels like it’s always been part of your life!

When to Call the Doctor

While most skin issues clear up on their own, call your pediatrician if you notice:

• • A rash that blisters, oozes, or becomes infected
  • Fever alongside a rash
  • Severe eczema or dry patches that crack or bleed
  • Persistent diaper rash despite treatment
  • Pain and crying when changing diaper

How full feedings® Supports Baby Skin Health

Healthy skin starts from the inside out. Proper hydration and nutrition play a vital role in your baby’s skin health. At full feedings®, we emphasize meeting your baby’s feeding needs fully during the day so they can grow, sleep, and thrive.

Our programs can help you:

• • Develop and sustain full feedings® to support hydration and overall health.
  • Follow age-appropriate routines that ensure your baby gets the rest they need for optimal development (and healthier skin).
  • Get personalized feeding support for issues like fussiness, reflux, and more.

If you need more help:

• • Infant & Toddler Sleep Programs: Learn our simple 3-step, no cry-it-out method to achieve consistent nighttime sleep.
  • Breastfeeding Basics & Bottle Feeding Basics: Self-paced feeding programs to support your feeding journey.
  • 1:1 Lactation Consultation: Email hellomilk@fullerfeedings.com to schedule a personalized call with our Certified Breastfeeding Specialists®.
  • 1:1 Sleep Consultation: Work privately with one of our sleep consultants by emailing hellosleep@fullfeedings.com.

To explore our online programs, click HERE and take the first step toward better feeding, better sleep, and a happier baby.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from your pediatrician or healthcare provider. If you have concerns about your baby’s feeding or health, always consult a medical professional.