Baby Lotion

There’s no better smell than a freshly bathed baby, slathered in baby lotion. It’s a smell that most of us can easily recall to our memory, especially if we’re a mother. There are dozens of baby lotions on the market, in both that original baby lotion scent as well as other scents, too.

However, if your baby has extremely sensitive skin or eczema, traditional baby lotions, though formulated for babies, could cause rash or irritation. If this is the case, you may need to look for special baby lotions in order to avoid a rash. Here are some things to look for

• Fragrance free – In many cases, babies have a skin reaction to the fragrance in a baby lotion. Even lotions that are “ all natural” may contain fragrance.

• Chemical additives – Some babies will react to the chemicals in a lotion. If you suspect this is the case with your baby, look for all natural lotions that contain no chemical additives and no parabens.

• Waxes – Many skin care products contain wax, which can cause irritation in baby’s skin. Often products labeled all natural will be free of wax.

Keep in mind that you should ensure that the baby lotion is, in fact the product causing the irritation. Baby washes and even baby oil can cause skin irritation in especially sensitive babies, so it’s important to determine exactly what’s causing the problem. And, of course, a baby who is allergic to one baby product may be allergic to many different products, particularly if he is allergic to all fragrances.

If you find that your baby is allergic to nearly all traditional baby products, look for a baby skincare line that is especially designed for sensitive baby skin. Earth Mama/Angel Baby lotion and other baby products are some of the most gentle you can buy. These products work well on nearly every baby because they’re completely natural and organic. They contain no chemicals, parabens or fragrance.

If you’re lucky enough to have a baby whose skin can tolerate the regular, name brand baby lotions like Johnson’s baby lotion, you can find this and other name brands at every grocer and baby store.

Whatever baby lotion you choose, use it liberally daily, especially after baths. Baby’s skin dries out easily, and lotion helps keep in the natural moisture. Follow your pediatrician’s recommendations for when it’s safe to use baby products like lotion and baby wash. Many recommend that these products not be used until baby is 6-8 weeks old.