Here are some expert-recommended monsoon skincare tips for babies

The rainy season has already begun and parents need to alter their baby care practices and routine to ensure the babys skin is looked after well A newborn babys skin is 4060 times thinner than an adult and hence needs the gentlest care and nourishmentIANSlife speaks to Pradeep Suryawanshi Professor and Head Department of Neonatology BVU Medical College Pune and Member of Indian Academy of Pediatrics IAP who shares a guide for the best skincare practices for babies during monsoonMassagingMassaging the baby with oil is an ageold technique followed by almost every Indian household and has various benefits According to the Indian Academy of Pediatrics IAP massaging when done systematically with the right baby oil results in less stress behaviour lower cortisol levels and improved cognitive performance in the babyThe ideal time to massage is when a child is relaxed and not hungry Ensure the room is warm and begin with a small amount of oil by pouring it into the hands and gently glide over the skin One should use light and nonsticky mineral oil with enriched vitamin EAvoid rigorous massaging instead do it gently with upward strokes and circular motions in the front and back The process when done with the gentlest touch will improve the parentchild bond and add warmth to the babys skin which is beneficial during the changing temperatures of monsoonBathing with easeBath time like massaging is a good opportunity to engage with the child During monsoons a daily bath is not necessary two to three times a week is ideal Bathing should be done in a warm room with lukewarm water Parents can choose to use a baby cleanser or baby soap for bathing the baby One needs to ensure the products are free from parabens dyes and phthalates clinically proven mild and suitable for a childs skin Baby soap enriched with milk protein and vitamin E is best as it will gently wash away germs and leave behind soft and smooth skin Like the soap baby wash with ingredients like natural milk extracts rice bran protein and 24 hours moisturizing are also easily available in the marketAfter bathing the baby should be dried with a soft and warm towel The creases should be dried properly to avoid rashesMoisturising is importantAs per research 2 out of 3 babies in India have dry skin Using a good moisturising cream or lotion will help to retain moisture in the babys skin A good product will not only nourish but also protect the babys skin A lotion having a 24hour locking system with glycerin or milk extracts and rice bran protein can be used especially after bath timeWhile applying the moisturizer squirt a little on both hands and apply in a heart shape on the childs front and back A baby cream with vitamin E and milk extracts can be used on the face and the lotion on the rest of the bodyDiaper careTaking care of the diaper area is important Baby in a wet and tight diaper especially during humid weather can cause increased sweating leading to diaper dermatitis and infection in the perianal areaFrequently change the diapers or keep the baby diaperfree whenever possible Use alcoholfree wipes with moisturizing content to clean the diaper area Keeping the diaper area clean and dry will avoid rashes If the problem with rashes persists consult a doctorComfortable clothingDuring the monsoon fulllength cotton clothes will allow the passage of fresh air to the skin avoid rashes and prevent mosquito bites Make the child wear a soft woolen sweater if the temperature decreases due to heavy rainsAlso Read Mumbaibased parents share tips on inspiring LGBTQIA sensitivity in children