In this article:
While the changing climate is beyond our control, we, as parents, can protect our baby’s skin in Indian weather. Thus, understanding the types of skin issues and doctor-recommended skincare tips is crucial to make your baby rash-free and healthy.
What are the Common Skin Issues in Babies During Weather Change?
Indian weather can take a toll on your baby’s health and lead to severe skin-related issues. Here are the common baby skin issues in Indian weather.Heat Rash
These are tiny red bumps that occur on your baby’s neck, arms, chest, and underarms. Generally, these rashes are common in hot, humid climates (especially in May, June, & July) when sweat glands become blocked. Furthermore, the rash can cause itching or irritation, disrupting your baby’s sleep.Tip: Use light cotton clothes, keep the room well-ventilated, and avoid using creams without a doctor’s prescription.
Sunburn or Tanning
Babies have thin skin and are sensitive to UV rays. Even half an hour of sun exposure for your baby can lead to sunburn, tanning, or redness. If neglected, it may cause uneven skin tone or pigmentation.Tip: Avoid sun exposure between 10 PM and 4 PM and choose a good sunscreen for your baby to protect against harmful UV rays. However, before using any product, always consult your paediatrician to avoid side effects.
Dry Skin
It is common during the winter season when the cold winds and low humidity pull out the natural moisture of your baby’s skin. Consequently, it may lead to rough and tight skin, especially on the cheeks and hands. Furthermore, bathing your baby in hot water leads to dry skin and flakiness.Tip: Use a good baby soap as suggested by your doctor. Don’t use extremely hot water to bathe your baby in winter.
Eczema
It generally occurs as dry and itchy skin caused by pollution, allergens, dry air, and extreme weather changes. While monsoon causes high humidity, chilly winter may lead to dry conditions, which can trigger flare-ups and cracked skin in babies.Tip: Choose soft cotton fabrics for your baby to keep them comfortable. Use a good dermatologist-recommended cream or moisturiser to keep dryness and itchy skin at bay.
Diaper Rash
Though diapers are considered safe, they can sometimes lead to red patches and inflamed skin if they come into contact with stool or urine. Furthermore, these symptoms can worsen, especially in a hot and humid climate.Tip: Always change your baby’s diaper frequently to keep their skin clean and dry.
How to Tackle Heat Rashes and Dryness in Your Baby in Indian Weather?
India has unpredictable weather, and therefore, it can cause severe skin-related issues in your baby. However, simply following a few tips can easily tackle heat rashes and dryness in your little one.Practise Gentle Bathing
Baby bathing is essential to keep bacteria at bay. Always use lukewarm water and keep the time in under 10 minutes to avoid drying out your baby’s skin. Furthermore, ask a certified paediatrician or a healthcare professional to prescribe you a fragrance-free baby cleanser to keep your baby’s skin healthy.Keep the Baby Dry & Cool
Moisture is the biggest contributor to skin infection in babies. Always choose light cotton clothes that promote better air circulation. If the weather is extremely hot (in May or June), turn your AC on to maintain a comfortable room temperature. However, don’t point direct air flow at your little one.Avoid Cream or Ointments (Without Prescription)
Once bathing is done, we generally put some cream to moisturise the baby’s skin to prevent dryness. However, these creams can block pores, trap heat, and worsen skin-related issues. If you ever witness rashes or redness on your baby’s skin, don’t panic! Consult your healthcare professional to buy a safe and gentle solution to keep skin infections at bay.Keep Your Baby Indoors
Don’t take your babies out in hot weather, especially during the afternoon hours. Besides skin-related issues, prolonged sun exposure can lead to a high fever. Try to keep your baby indoors in extreme heat. Furthermore, maintain good ventilation in your house to protect your little one’s skin from rashes or redness.Note: If your baby’s skin-related issues persist, consult a certified paediatrician or a doctor immediately to avoid severe side effects.
Indian weather brings abundant challenges to babies’ skin. Following the above-mentioned tips can help prevent skin-related issues like rashes, redness, dryness, or infections in babies. Furthermore, if the condition persists, consult the nearest healthcare professional to get a prescribed moisturiser or cream for your baby’s skin.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Baby Skincare in Indian Weather: Tackling Heat Rashes and Dryness
- Is it necessary to wash my baby’s clothes separately?
Yes, it’s necessary to wash your baby’s clothes, especially diapers, separately from your own laundry. Always use a soft and dye-free detergent for your little one’s outfits. - Can I use soap to bathe my newborn baby?
No, it’s recommended to use soap to bathe your newborn baby. Simply use plain water for newborn babies.