Skin development is a process that begins in the womb and continues for a year after birth. There are some differences between baby skin and adult skin. We can list them as follows:
1. While the surface area is 700cm/kg in babies, it is 250cm/kg in adults. Having a large body surface area in newborns is important in terms of percutaneous absorption (absorption through the skin) and drug metabolism.
2. Epidermal-dermal connection is weak. This facilitates the formation of blisters (watery blisters) and makes the skin more sensitive to trauma.
3. The skin is thin and less elastic than adult skin.
4. The permeability of the corneum is high and the epidermal barrier is not well developed. As a result, water loss from the skin and the absorption of products applied to the skin, which we call percutaneous absorption, have increased. The fact that the epidermal barrier is not well developed makes the skin more sensitive to microorganisms, irritation and maceration.
5. In the newborn, the skin is sterile. Over time, bacterial colonization begins to occur.
6. Normally, the skin pH value is 4.5, meaning it is slightly acidic. In newborns, pH tends to be neutral. So newborn skin is vulnerable to bacteria. The shift in pH value in this direction affects the number and type of bacteria settling on the skin. How should these features of the newborn skin be reflected in life practice?
A healthy newborn born at term should have his first bath immediately after birth, 2-6 hours later, without using any cleanser. Then, soap-free liquid cleaners with a slightly acidic pH value can be used. Baths should not be long, the baby should be dried with a towel gently without rubbing, and the baby should be dressed in heated clothes as the body temperature will decrease after the bath. Using a suitable moisturizer after bathing will be beneficial as it will support the epidermal barrier. This is a practice that is recommended for atopic babies.
The diaper area is always a problematic area. Constant contact with strong alkalines such as urine and feces makes the skin vulnerable. For this reason, diapers should be changed frequently and barrier creams that prevent contact should be used at each diaper change. Although wet wipes are practical for cleaning the area, they should not be used too often, use more water and cotton cloths.
If you want to use baby shampoos, products that are odorless and will not irritate the skin and eyes should be chosen. Alphanova Bebe, Mustela Bebe, Oilatum and Sebamed are examples of brands that can be used safely for babies.
The use of alcohol and iodine for antiseptic purposes on baby skin should be avoided. Creams that are classified as pharmaceuticals should not be applied to very large areas. They may be absorbed into the systemic circulation and cause undesirable effects.
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