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Newborn skin is delicate, and so is babys new immune system. Chemicals, fragrances, clothing dyes, detergents, and baby products can cause skin irritation and rashes. While this sounds worrying, there is much you can do to protect your baby from these skin problems.

In the first month, as the immune system is still developing, don’t use baby products. Anyone with a family history of allergies or asthma should pay close attention to protecting babys new immune system and skin.

Baby’s mew clothing should always be washed before it’s worn. Use high quality, baby-only laundry detergents that are fragrance and dye-free. Wash all of baby’s clothes, bedding and blankets separately from the main family’s laundry and always remember to give everything one extra rinse.

There is not need to bathe your baby frequently. Frequent bathing actually removes the natural oils that protect baby’s delicate skin. Newborns don’t get very dirty, except for drool and diaper changes, so for the first month or so, a sponge bath a few times a week will keep your baby more than clean. For regular cleaning of baby’s mouth and diaper area use a little warm water and cleanser.

When baby has an allergic reaction, the result can be a rash. Rashes under the diaper may be eczema and not a diaper rash. An allergy to dyes in the diapers themselves can cause this reaction so changing to dye-free diapers may be all that’s needed to prevent future outbreaks. If it doesn’t go away then reduce bathing to once a week, change your baby’s skin products and make sure baby wears only soft clothing.

Most often, diaper rash is caused by the irritating wetness of a soiled diaper. The rash can also develop when baby’s skin is not properly dried after a bath. Sometimes, a bacteria or yeast infection will cause diaper rash, especially for babies who are taking antibiotics.

Most forms of diaper rash don’t require medical care. To treat diaper rash and prevent further newborn skin problems:

1. Check diapers many times a day.

2. Diapers should be chnaged immediately they are wet or soiled.

3. Wash the diaper area with mild fragrance-free cleanser or plain water. If the rash is severe, use a squirt bottle to cleanse without rubbing.

4. Use a soft clean cloth, not baby wipes. The perfume or alcohol in many wipes can further irritate and dry baby’s skin.

5. Pat baby dry. Don’t rub. Let the diaper area air-dry fully before putting on a fresh diaper.

6. Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) or a protective ointment like Desitin or A&D.

7. Avoid using baby powder. Corn starch-based powders promote yeast growth. Talcum powder may cause lung problems if inhaled.

Giving your newborn a soothing massage is important one-on-one time that conveys your love. Research has shown that a baby’s very survival depends on being touched by others as touch triggers hormones, boosts immunity, and helps fight disease. Additionally, and befeficial to both parents and baby, massaged babies are calmer, sleep better, and cry less.

There is no special technique to massaging a baby. Simple find a carpeted floor in a warm room then lay baby on a soft blanket or fabric. Get a little baby oil or a gentle lotion. Warm it in your hands. Then very gently massage baby’s chest and tummy using a gentle yet touch. Make eye contact and sing softly to your little treasure.