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The skin is the largest organ in the body and is made up of 3 main layers i.e. the epidermis, the dermis and the underlying subcutaneous fatty tissue. The epidermis, which is nothing but the outer layer, is further divided into stratum corneum (SC), stratum granulosum, and stratum spinosum.
The stratum spinosum is at the junction of the first two layers i.e. epidermis and dermis and is where the renewal of the basal cells is carried out. Basal cells constantly divide and are called keratinocytes and act as a barrier, which allows the retention of fluids within the epidermal cells and prevent the invasion of micro-organisms, chemicals and allergens onto your skin, stores fat and protects your skin against cold.2, 3 However there is a vast difference between the skin of a baby and an adult.1, 2, 3
Structural differences in a baby’s skin
The SC in a baby’s skin approximately 30% thinner than an adult.2 The cells in the SC are smaller in baby’s skin. Melanocytes (responsible for skin color) are less pigmented which gives a baby’s skin the lighter shade. The immune protection of the skin and its receptor function develop well during the initial years of a baby.3
Compositional differences in a baby’s skin
After birth, the skin of a baby is drier than of an adult’s. Hence the sebaceous gland (a small gland in the skin which secretes a lubricating oily matter-sebum into the hair follicles to lubricate the skin) activity is limited in babies compared to adults.4
Some babies may experience a condition known as “acne neonatorum” which occurs usually 2-3 weeks after the baby is born. It is caused by stimulation of the sebaceous glands.3 A newborn baby has an alkaline skin surface, with an average pH of 6.34 which gradually decreases within a few days to about 4.95 (acid).
This is known as the 'Acid Mantle' and is the skins protector.2 This occurs due to your baby’s exposure to air, instead of amniotic fluid.3
Functional differences in a baby’s skin
A baby’s skin is vulnerable since the surface area of its skin is relatively higher compared to its weight.3 Hence additional care must be taken to prevent dryness, rash, irritation from the hazardous chemicals that some baby products may contain.5
Continue reading on the next page to know how you should care for your newborn's skin!
The dose of chemicals that can be absorbed through their skin is larger since their skin is permeable 4, 5 After a few months, the baby’s skin becomes more hydrated than an adult’s skin but it can lose moisture at a higher rate. This is known as trans- epidermal water loss.4 Hence it is essential to moisturize your baby’s skin with oil or a lotion.3, 4
Caring for your baby’s skin
The 3 basics while caring for your baby’s skin are: proper cleansing, good moisturizing, and adequate sun protection.
- Refrain from using adult bath products including soaps, shampoos, lotions or oils which can alter or disrupt the skin barrier.5, 6
- Use a mild detergent to wash your baby’s clothes.6
- Use a moisturizer that contains ingredients like glycerin or petroleum which can nourish your baby’s skin.6
- Change the diaper six or seven times a day or more if necessary. You can bathe your baby daily too: if it is environmentally condusive, if the baby is free of medical conditions and has a healthy skin. The basic idea is to keep the child clean and in addition, also provides a good multisensorial stimulation and bonding.
- Babies can also be bathed on alternate days or once a week if it has dry skin.6 Use baby products sparingly and read the labels clearly.6
- It is advisable to protect your baby from the direct harsh sunlight. Do not use sunscreen until your baby is 6 months since the chemicals can be absorbed by the baby’s skin.6
- Avoid the afternoon sun, dress your baby in an environment appropriate comfortable dressing, avoid over wrapping the child and make sure they are not overheated by inappropriate dressing. Consult with your doctor if you observe any of the above symptoms.4, 5
A baby’s skin is not as resistant as an adult’s.3, 4, 7 As a parent you must ensure that you understand that your baby’s skin is delicate and different from an adult’s skin. Some babies might have more than usual sensitivity in the skin hence certain baby products might not be suitable and could cause rash, irritation and dryness .7
Also Read: Which is the right moisturiser for your baby's skin
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[Images courtesy: Pixabay]
References
1.Trotter, S. Neonatal skincare: why change is vital. RCM Midwives.Vol:2006:9:4. Accessed on 15 September,2016
2.Trotter, S.Care of the Newborn: Proposed new guidelines. British Journal of Midwifery Vol:2004:12:3.Accessed 15 September, 2016
3.Introduction to Cosmetic Formulation and Technology. books.google.ae/books?id=tM_0BgAAQBAJ&pg=PA616&dq=STRUCTURAL+DIFFERENCES+IN+A+BABY+AND+ADULT+SKIN&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiZqP60vZHPAhUJOsAKHbS0CwMQ6AEIHDAA#v=onepage&q=STRUCTURAL%20DIFFERENCES%20IN%20A%20BABY%20AND%20ADULT%20SKIN&f=false. Accessed 15 September, 2016
4.Oranges, T et a Skin Physiology of the Neonate and Infant: Clinical Implications. Vol:2015:4:10 Accessed on 15 September,2016.
5.Telofski, LS et a The Infant Skin Barrier: Can We Preserve, Protect, and Enhance the Barrier? Dermatology Research and Practice. Vol. 2012: 1-19. www.hindawi.com/journals/drp/2012/198789/. Accessed 15 September, 2016
6.Fluhr, JE et al. Functional skin adaptation in infancy - almost complete but not fully competent. Accessed 15 September,2016.
7.Stamatas, G et al. Baby Skin vs. Adult Skin Structure, Function and Composition. Vol:2013. Accessed 15 September, 2016
