Help Me Choose: Baby Skin Care

Understanding Baby Skin

Baby skin looks soft and perfect, but it’s actually incredibly delicate.

Newborn skin is not fully mature at birth — it continues developing throughout the first year of life.

Compared to adult skin, baby skin is thinner, more sensitive, and far more permeable, which means it absorbs substances placed on the skin more easily and loses moisture more quickly. This is why babies are so prone to dryness, diaper rash, heat rash, cradle cap, and eczema-prone skin.

Because their skin barrier is still learning how to protect them, even everyday things can cause irritation: clothing, detergents, wipes, fragrances, dyes, laundry detergents, and many conventional baby products. A baby’s skin simply doesn’t have the resilience that adult skin does.

That’s why babies do best with simple, natural, minimal ingredient skincare. Gentle plant oils and butters help nourish and protect their developing skin without overwhelming it.

Babies don’t need complicated routines or long ingredient lists — they need uncomplicated, soothing care that supports their skin as it adapts to the world. We believe nature provides the gentle ingredients babies need from their very first days.

 

Why Simple, Natural Ingredients Are Best for Babies

Baby skin thrives on simplicity.

Many common baby skin concerns — dry skin, eczema‑prone skin, diaper rash, cradle cap, and general sensitivity — can be triggered or worsened by what’s inside skincare products. Synthetic fragrances, preservatives, dyes, detergents, surfactants, and other ingredients can easily overwhelm a baby’s developing moisture barrier.

When a product contains only a few thoughtfully chosen natural ingredients, there are fewer opportunities for irritation, fewer hidden triggers, and a much gentler experience overall.

A simple formula gives delicate skin less to “sort through,” which can make a noticeable difference in comfort and calmness.

Because babies can be sensitive to many things, it’s important to remember that “natural” doesn’t automatically mean irritation-free — even natural botanicals can cause very delicate baby skin to react. 

Understanding how your baby’s skin responds — and paying attention to ingredient lists — can help you identify patterns and avoid future flare‑ups.

Patch Testing

Whenever you try a new product, do a simple patch test on a small area of the child's skin to ensure it is well-tolerated before applying it more broadly.

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Bath Time: Keeping Baby Skin Clean, Calm, and Comfortable

Bathing a baby seems simple, but for new parents, it can feel like an awesome responsibility — especially when you’re trying to protect delicate newborn skin. Baby skin is thinner, more sensitive, and more prone to dryness than adult skin, which means the products you choose and the way you bathe your baby truly matter.

Do babies really need a bath every day?

The answer depends on your baby. Many sources say newborns only need a bath a few times a week since they don’t get very dirty. But real life with babies can look quite different.

Between spit-up, drool, diaper blowouts, and milk dribbles that collect in all those adorable folds, some days a full bath is simply the easiest way to get all their little parts clean. 

What matters most is gentle cleansing, not how often you bathe.

How to Bathe Your Baby Gently

A baby bathtub or basin with lukewarm water, a soft cotton washcloth, and a mild, natural soap are all you need. Use a small amount of soap and wash carefully, paying special attention to the diaper area, hands, between tiny toes, neck folds, and those lovable thigh creases. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

After bathing, gently pat your baby dry — especially in skin folds and the diaper area, where trapped moisture can lead to irritation. Apply a gentle, unscented organic moisturizer, like our Baby Body Balm or Baby Body Oil, right after the bath to help lock in hydration.

Making Bath Time Comfortable

Many newborns don’t love being naked — they can feel exposed and may startle easily. Placing a warm, wet washcloth over their body in the tub can help them feel secure. Choose a time when your baby is calm and not hungry, and if baths relax them, an evening bath can become a soothing part of the bedtime routine.

Do Babies Need Soap Every Day?

Not necessarily. On some days, a simple warm‑water bath is enough to keep your baby clean. For a soap‑free, soothing soak, our Baby Bath Herbs offer a gentle blend of organic botanicals that comfort the skin and help settle fussy babies. (Parents can also make a simple version at home with oats and mild herbs in a muslin bag.)

Important Safety Note

If your baby still has their umbilical cord stump, avoid submerging them in water. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends sponge baths until the stump naturally dries and falls off — usually within one to two weeks. If you are unsure, always check with a healthcare professional.

 

 

Diaper Rash: Understanding and Caring for Delicate Skin

Diaper rash is one of the most common skin concerns in infancy, and even the most attentive parents will encounter it at some point. Baby skin is thin, sensitive, and easily irritated — especially in the diaper area, where warmth, moisture, and friction all come together.

What Diaper Rash Looks Like

Diaper rash can range from mild to more uncomfortable:

• Mild rashes may appear as pink or lightly red, dry patches.
• More irritated skin can look bright red, raw, or tender.
• In some cases, the skin may even crack or bleed, which can make babies fussy or disrupt sleep.

Because baby skin is so delicate, even small irritations can escalate quickly.

What Causes Diaper Rash

The most common cause is prolonged moisture. When skin stays wet for too long, it begins to break down, leaving it vulnerable to chafing and irritation. Other common triggers include:

• Harsh soaps or wipes
• Sweat and heat
• Soiled diapers left on too long
• Sensitivity to diaper materials
• Friction from tight diapers
• Products containing fragrances, dyes, or preservatives

How to Help Prevent Diaper Rash

• The best prevention is keeping the diaper area clean, dry, and protected.
• Clean gently at every diaper change. A soft cotton washcloth with warm water is often less irritating than commercial wipes.
• Pat dry — never rub — especially in the little folds where moisture hides.
• Apply a thin layer of a mild, unscented organic Baby Balm or Baby Bum Salve to create a protective barrier. Avoid water‑based lotions; they evaporate quickly and require preservatives.

*And a helpful reminder: over‑cleaning can backfire. Too much wiping or scrubbing on already‑moist sensitive skin can weaken the barrier and make irritation worse.

If Your Baby Develops Diaper Rash

Most diaper rashes can be cared for at home with gentle, consistent care:

• It is important to keep the area as clean and dry as possible.
• Change wet or soiled diapers promptly.
• Rinse the diaper area with warm water as part of each diaper change — dipping their bottom in a basin or using a squirt bottle can help avoid rubbing.
• If needed, use a mild, unscented natural soap. Be mindful of baby wipes, especially those that contain alcohol or fragrance, which will further irritate the skin.
• Gently pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel. Do not rub!
• Give the skin some air time when possible — loose diapers or short diaper‑free periods help.
• Apply a thick layer of a rich, organic Baby Bum Salve or Baby Balm to protect the skin.

If the rash worsens, doesn’t improve in a few days, or if you are concerned at any point, it’s always best to consult your baby’s healthcare provider.

 

 

Dry Skin & Baby Eczema
Understanding and Caring for Delicate Skin

Dry skin is extremely common in babies, and many little ones also experience eczema‑prone skin during their first year.

Baby skin is not fully mature at birth — it’s thinner, more sensitive, and loses moisture more easily than adult skin. As their skin adapts to life outside the womb, dryness, flakiness, and irritation can appear quickly. Mild dryness may not bother your baby, but when skin becomes very dry, it can become itchy and irritated, leading to scratching and further discomfort.

Why Babies Get Dry Skin

Baby skin is still developing, and compared to adult skin:

• The cells are smaller
• The skin barrier is thinner
• Moisture evaporates more quickly
• The skin is more permeable and reactive

This combination makes babies more prone to dry patches, roughness, and irritation — especially on the hands, feet, face, and lips.

Dry Skin vs. Baby Eczema: What’s the Difference?

Dry skin and eczema can look similar, but eczema usually involves more inflammation and irritation.

Dry Skin
Dry skin is extremely common in babies and usually looks and feels like:

• Rough or flaky patches
• Dryness on the hands, feet, face, or lips
• Skin that looks dull or slightly ashy
• Mild dryness that usually doesn’t bother the baby
• Occasional itchiness if the skin becomes very dry

Dry skin is mostly about moisture loss — the skin barrier is still developing and needs extra hydration.

Eczema‑Prone Skin
Eczema‑prone skin (a type of atopic dermatitis) tends to look and behave differently:

• Patches that appear inflamed or irritated
• Color changes depending on skin tone
  • In lighter skin tones, patches may appear pink or red
  • In darker skin tones, patches may look red‑brown, purplish, or grayish.
• Rough, scaly, or thickened areas
• Patches commonly found behind the ears, on the scalp, neck, ankles, elbow creases, or behind the knees
• Tiny fluid‑filled bumps that may break open
• Persistent itchiness that can make babies fussy or disrupt sleep
• Flare‑ups can be triggered by fabrics, detergents, topical products, pet dander, temperature changes, and foods as they get older.

Eczema‑prone skin is more about sensitivity and reactivity, not just dryness.

Caring for Dry or Eczema‑Prone Baby Skin

The foundation of caring for dry or eczema‑prone skin is gentle cleansing and consistent moisturizing.

Bathing

• A short, lukewarm bath (5–10 minutes) helps hydrate and cool the skin.
• Avoid scrubbing irritated areas.
• Use a mild, natural baby soap only when needed.
• For extra comfort, our Baby Bath Herbs — or a simple muslin bag filled with oats — can help soothe the skin.

Moisturizing

• After bathing, gently pat your baby dry and apply moisturizer immediately while the skin is still damp.
• Avoid water‑based lotions; they evaporate quickly and require preservatives.
• Choose rich, oil‑based products like our Unscented Baby Bath Oil or Baby Body Balm to help lock in moisture.

Stay Ahead of Dryness. Babies can’t tell you when they feel itchy, so moisturizing throughout the day — not just after baths — can help prevent discomfort before it starts.

Clothing & Laundry

• Dress your baby in soft, breathable fabrics like cotton.
• Avoid tight or scratchy clothing.
• Always wash new clothes using mild, fragrance‑free, dye‑free soap or detergents before putting them on your baby.

Patch Testing

Whenever you try a new product, do a simple patch test on a small area of the child's skin to ensure it is well-tolerated.

 

 

Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)

Heat rash — sometimes called prickly heat — is very common in babies.

Their tiny sweat glands are still developing, which means sweat can easily become trapped under the skin. When that happens, small red bumps or patches can appear, often in warm, enclosed areas like the neck, bottom, back, or skin folds.

What Parents Notice About Heat Rash

• Small red bumps or tiny spots
• Areas that look warm or flushed
• A prickly or itchy sensation (babies may seem fussy)
• Patches in places where sweat collects: neck folds, armpits, groin, back, or under clothing

Why Babies Get Heat Rash

Heat rash is common during hot, humid weather, especially when your baby is exposed to too much sun or heat or is overdressed.

Babies lose heat more quickly than adults, so we often dress them warmly “just in case.” 

No matter what the temperature was outside, any time my dear mom would feel cool hands, she insisted my babies needed more clothing.

But when clothing traps heat and moisture, sweat can’t escape, and irritation develops. Even a warm car seat, a snug swaddle, or a cozy nap outfit can be enough to trigger a rash.

How to Soothe Heat Rash

Gentle cooling and simple care usually help the skin settle quickly.

• Give a cool or lukewarm bath to soothe the skin and ease itchiness.
• Gentle organic herbal bath blends or oatmeal baths may help comfort delicate skin without detergents or fragrances.
• After bathing, gently pat skin dry and don’t forget those cute little folds where moisture can remain trapped.
• Dressing your baby in loose, breathable clothing made from breathable natural fibers like cotton allows air circulation and helps prevent overheating.
• Keep the environment cool and dry when possible.

A small amount of fragrance‑free, talc‑free baby powder can help absorb moisture in areas where clothing rubs or where folds stay damp. Our organic unscented Baby Powder is a gentle option made from vegetable root powders and silky clay. Apply powder to your hands first, then gently smooth it onto the skin rather than sprinkling it directly on your baby.

When to Reach Out for Guidance

Heat rash usually improves within a few days with gentle care.If the rash does not improve after a few days, appears infected, or your baby develops a fever or seems unwell, contact your baby’s healthcare provider.

 

 

Stinky Skin Folds

Neck Cheese, Armpit Cheese, and All Those Adorable Baby Rolls

Baby rolls are irresistible — but all those soft, squishy folds can trap moisture, milk, drool, and sweat. When that happens, the skin can start to smell sour or “cheesy,” and you may even find white, creamy buildup in the creases. It’s extremely common, especially in chubby babies or little ones who haven’t yet mastered holding up their heads.

Why Skin Folds Get Stinky

Baby folds tend to stay warm, they are moist, closed off from airflow, and prone to friction. This combination causes skin to rub, shed, and stay damp. When mixed with sweat, drool, or milk, you have the perfect recipe for that classic “baby cheese” that parents discover in neck creases, under arms, in the groin, or between thigh folds.

Younger babies, who cannot yet hold their heads up, are especially prone to neck cheese because drool and milk easily collect under the chin, and their heads naturally tilt forward, limiting airflow.

How to Clean and Care for Stinky Folds

Keeping these areas clean and dry is the best way to prevent irritation.

During baths, gently separate folds and cleanse with warm water and mild soap using a soft washcloth. Baby wipes can sometimes irritate delicate skin, so plain or soapy water is often the gentlest choice. A small squirt bottle of warm water can help rinse delicate areas without excessive rubbing. 

After washing, gently pat folds dry. Moisture left in these areas can quickly lead to irritation, so it helps to check folds a few times during the day, especially after feedings.

For spot treatments, use a cotton ball with a bit of natural soap to gently cleanse the folds and pat dry.

Two Approaches to Caring for Baby Folds

Different babies respond differently, and both approaches are safe and commonly used. Make sure the skin is completely dry before applying any products.

• Reduce Friction With a Balm or Oil: Applying a small amount of natural baby oil or baby balm helps reduce friction, create a barrier against moisture, and protect delicate skin.
• Keep the Area Dry With a Gentle Powder: A gentle baby powder can help absorb moisture and reduce chafing. Our organic Baby Powder is ideal because it uses vegetable root powders and silky clay, is unscented, is gentle enough for delicate baby skin, and avoids cornstarch, which can encourage yeast growth. Sprinkle a small amount into your hands first, then gently apply to the folds.

When to Be More Cautious

Most stinky folds are harmless, but sometimes irritation can develop.

If skin remains healthy, regular bathing and keeping folds clean and dry are usually enough. However, warm, moist folds can become a breeding ground for bacteria or yeast. If the skin looks irritated, doesn’t improve, or you’re concerned, it’s always best to reach out to your child's healthcare provider.

 

 

Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is extremely common in young infants, especially between two and six months of age. It can look dramatic, but it’s usually harmless.

Most parents notice flaky, dry skin on the scalp that resembles dandruff, or thicker yellowish or brown scales that cling to the skin. Sometimes the area underneath looks a little red, and occasionally a few hairs may come away with the flakes — but they grow back.

Cradle cap can also appear around the eyebrows, ears, eyelids, armpits, or in other skin folds, though the scalp is the most common place.

What Causes Cradle Cap?

The exact cause isn’t known, but cradle cap is thought to be related to overactive oil glands in the skin. Hormones passed from mother to baby late in pregnancy may temporarily stimulate these oil-producing glands, causing excess oil that traps old skin cells on the scalp instead of allowing them to shed naturally.

Some researchers also believe that a naturally occurring yeast on the skin may contribute to the condition in some babies. Whatever the cause, cradle cap is not contagious, and unlike eczema, it usually does not itch.

How to Care for Cradle Cap

There’s no single “treatment,” but gentle, consistent care can help loosen the scales and keep the scalp comfortable.

Gentle Washing
Washing your baby’s scalp regularly with a mild, natural baby soap can help lift flakes without irritating the scalp. Create a light lather in your hands and gently massage it onto the scalp. Avoid getting soap in your baby’s eyes.

Soft Brushing
Before shampooing, you can help loosen the scales by gently massaging the scalp with the pads of your fingers (not your nails) or a very soft baby brush. A soft toothbrush can help reach small areas.

Be gentle, do not scrub or focus on the same spot for too long — the goal is not to remove all the scales at once, gradual improvement is best. Consistency matters more than intensity.

Softening with Oil
Applying a small amount of light organic, unscented baby oil to the scalp 15–30 minutes before washing can help soften scales so they lift more easily. Shampoo afterward to remove excess oil, since leaving oil on the scalp may clog pores and worsen buildup.

To help further loosen the scales, you can use a brush on the oiled scalp before shampooing. This is where I find a soft toothbrush very helpful. An oily toothbrush is easier to clean after use and is also more disposable. Again, remember the goal is NOT to remove all of the scales at one time.

Once the scales clear, washing every few days can help prevent them from returning.

A Few Important Notes

• Never pick at the scales — it can irritate the skin and increase the risk of infection.
• Avoid over‑the‑counter dandruff shampoos, cortisone creams, or antifungal products unless your baby’s healthcare provider recommends them.

Cradle cap is rarely a serious condition. If the scalp looks very red, irritated, or begins to ooze, or if you’re concerned at any point, reach out to your baby's healthcare provider.

 

 

Baby Massage

Babies thrive on touch. A gentle massage can help your little one relax, support healthy sleep patterns, ease tension, and strengthen the bond between you and your baby.

It doesn’t require perfect technique — just warm hands, a calm moment, and a simple, natural baby oil.

Massage time can become a peaceful daily ritual for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and even older siblings.

Because baby skin is so delicate, choose good, natural products made specifically for babies. 

It is alwasys a good idea to do a simple patch test on a small area of the child's skin to ensure it is well-tolerated before applying it more broadly.

Our Baby Me! Massage & Bath Oil is a simple, organic option that glides smoothly without overwhelming sensitive skin.

If you’d like step‑by‑step guidance, tips for getting started, and a full routine you can follow, we’ve created a detailed blog post that walks you through everything in a calm, confidence‑building way.

🍃 Read the full Natural Baby Massage Guide

 

 

Gentle Care for Growing Skin

Caring for a baby’s skin can feel like a lot, but truly — don’t fret.

Babies are little, but they’re resilient, and most of the bumps, flakes, rashes, and rolls you’ll encounter are simply part of growing up in this big new world.

With a little patience, gentle care, and lots of cuddles, their skin will find its rhythm.

Trust your instincts, keep things simple, and remember: you don’t need a cabinet full of products to care for your baby.

A few thoughtful choices, a calm routine, and your loving hands are more than enough. 

Baby skin doesn’t need perfection — it just needs gentle care, simple ingredients, and love.