What is the right time to use soaps and shampoos for babies?

How many times should you bathe your baby? Find out.

Bhakti Paun Sharma | Updated: November 30, 2015 12:46 pm

The chemicals and additives in cosmetic products, whether they are designed for babies or adults, concern most of us. As a first time mom, you want to keep your baby squeaky clean but you want to be extra cautious while exposing your baby to the soaps and shampoos. We asked Dr Sonia Sharma, Consultant Pediatric Nephrologist, PSRI Hospitals, New Delhi what is the right age to introduce infants to soaps and shampoos and here’s her response.

Read: Bathing your newborn baby – 7 tips to do it right.

While there is no age limitation on the use of products formulated for babies or infants, you should not bathe your baby till the umbilical cord stump sheds off. Sponge bathing with warm water is recommended during this time. After the umbilical cord stump heals, you can bathe your baby two-three times a week. Use baby shampoos and soaps designed for babies up to one year of age. Read the ingredients before choosing a product. If it contains too many weird names or is colourful and fragrant, avoid it.

Additives like phthalates and parabens can irritate the baby’s skin if it is very sensitive, though there are not many complaints. Shampooing the hair and scalp one-two times a week is sufficient. Excessive bathing or shampooing can wash off the natural oils and moisture from your baby’s skin and leave it dry and itchy.

Tips on using baby soaps and shampoos

If you are using soap for the first time and are doubtful about it, test it on a small part of the baby’s skin and wait for a couple of hours. If there is no redness or irritation, the product is good for your baby.
For babies below six months of age, do not use the soap bar directly on their skin. Make a soapy solution and use a soft sponge or washcloth to clean your baby.
Use fragrance-free soaps. The lesser the ingredients and chemicals in the soap, the better it is for your baby.
Do not allow the soap or shampoo to stay on your baby’s skin for more than three-four minutes.
Vigorous scrubbing is not required as your baby’s skin does not collect as much dirt as yours. Apply the soap and massage gently and wash off.
Bubble baths should be avoided till the age of three years as the chances of urinary tract infections are high.

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Published: November 26, 2015 6:03 pm | Updated:November 30, 2015 12:46 pm

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