Chapter 3 – Baby Hygiene

A baby’s skin, relative to their body weight, covers a larger surface area than that of an adult. It is a true organ—the largest one—that regulates interactions between the body and the outside environment. It protects against infections, helps maintain body temperature, and controls fluid loss through perspiration.

Compared to adults, baby skin is significantly more delicate. It is thinner, less elastic, and more permeable. The sebaceous (oil-producing) glands are not yet active, and sweat production is limited, making temperature regulation less effective.

As a result, babies’ skin: Loses moisture quickly, Dries out easily, Becomes irritated from friction or prolonged contact with urine and feces, Is more vulnerable to UV rays, Becomes dry and prone to irritation when its natural fatty layer is removed by soaps (5).

È importante quindi pulirla con estrema delicatezza, tenuto conto anche del fatto che nei primi mesi di vita i bambini hanno poche occasioni di sporcarsi, fatta eccezione per l’area del pannolino ed eventuali rigurgiti di latte. È sufficiente lavarli con acqua, senza l’uso di detergenti, aiutandosi con qualche batuffolo di cotone, un panno morbido che non deve essere strofinato con forza o una spugna che deve essere lavata e asciugata con cura dopo l’uso per prevenire la proliferazione di batteri e funghi.

It’s essential to clean the skin gently, especially since newborns rarely get dirty, aside from: The diaper area, Occasional milk spit-up
Recommended approach: Wash with water only, Use cotton balls or a soft cloth, without rubbing, Use a sponge only if it is cleaned and dried properly after each use to avoid bacteria or fungi, Using Cleansers. If using a cleanser, it should be: Specifically formulated for newborn skin, Respectful of the hydrolipidic film, Emollient and moisturizing, Free from alcohol and parabens, Preferably a syndet (synthetic detergent) with slightly acidic pH, since baby skin is naturally acidic, Avoid alkaline soaps, which may disturb the skin’s natural flora and increase the risk of infection and inflammation (6). For babies with: Atopic dermatitis or diaper rash, use an oil-based cleanser, only after consulting a pediatrician or dermatologist, Cleansing milk is also helpful—applied with a cotton pad, no rinsing needed—ideal for face, hands, and diaper area.

After cleaning, apply: A natural oil or baby-safe emollient, Free from dyes and fragrances, To restore the fatty barrier and prevent dryness, Talcum powder, once a hygiene staple, is now discouraged because it may be inhaled and cause respiratory issues (7).

In the first weeks, before the umbilical stump detaches, some pediatricians advise against immersion baths, preferring sponge baths instead. Focus on: Head, Face, Neck folds, Diaper area, Avoid wetting the umbilical area to keep it dry.
However, several studies have shown that even at this stage, immersion baths are not contraindicated, as long as the stump is thoroughly dried afterward.