Skin Care

Evidence 

https://karger.com/neo/article/120/3/295/836020/The-Delicate-Skin-of-Preterm-Infants-Barrier 

Janina Marissen, Mercedes Gomez de Agüero, Parul Chandorkar, Lilith Reichert, Kirsten Glaser, Christian P. Speer, Christoph Härtel 

At birth, the skin undergoes a sudden transition from the warm, amniotic fluid environment in utero to the cold, dry, microbe-rich outside world. The skin of term neonates has a structural composition that is appropriate for the required adaptive fitness. In contrast, the barrier function of preterm infants’ skin is less functional which renders them susceptible to thermal, mechanical, and chemical injury as well as water loss and electrolyte imbalance and infection. 

Education 

Your baby’s skin is very soft and delicate, especially if they were born premature. A premature baby’s skin isn’t fully mature and can be up to two times thinner than a full-term baby’s, which means their skin needs extra care for their protection and comfort. 

Common Skin Problems 

• Some babies may have dry or peeling skin after birth. This is normal and will go away on its own. 

• Babies can also get nappy rash. This happens when their skin gets too wet or rubs against the nappy too much. It can look red and sore. 

• Some babies may have tiny white spots on their face. These are called milia and will disappear over time. 

• If your baby has tubes or monitors attached, they may have pressure marks on their skin. These marks usually fade after a while. 

How to Care for Your Baby’s Skin 

• Keep your baby’s bottom skin clean and dry. Use soft cotton pads and warm water, or gentle water-based wipes. 

• Change nappies often to stop nappy rash. Use a cream with zinc oxide to protect their skin. 

• Newborns are to be washed with water only and don't need to be washed daily unless dirty as it removes the skins natural oils drying out the skin. 

• Use gentle lotions only if needed. Ask the nurses which ones are safe for your baby.

Empowerment  

How You Can Help Your Baby 

You are the best person to care for your baby. Even in the hospital, there are ways you can help. 

• Ask questions if you are worried about your baby’s skin 

• Nurses can show you how to change nappies and clean your baby’s skin safely. 

• If your baby’s skin is very sensitive, let the doctors know so they can help. 

Useful Links  

Waterwipes 

https://www.waterwipes.com/au/en/community/newborn/premature-skin-care 

https://www.miraclebabies.org.au/content/waterwipes/gjq2n4 

Raising Children Australia 

https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/premature-babies-sick-babies/development/premature-appearance 

The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne 

https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Skincare_for_babies_and_young_children/.

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