A newborn baby has a skin surface area of approximately 0.5m2, while an adult male has an area of approximately 1.9m2.
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Human skin
Theskin is the outer covering of the body that protects all the internal organs, so it is very important to care for it properly.
The skin consists of three layers:
- epidermis,
- dermis
- subcutaneous tissue.
Theskin forms the boundary between the external environment and the body's interior. It protects the body from mechanical injury, ultraviolet radiation, excessive heat exposure, microorganisms and allergens. It has a function in thermoregulation, protects against water loss and enables the removal of certain toxins.
Thestructure of the skin is the same at any age, but the thickness of the different layers and its metabolic activity change. In newborns, the ratio of skin surface area to body weight is much greater than in older children and adults. The stratum corneum is thinner in young children, and the sebaceous and sweat glands, which are not very active, do not secrete an adequate amount of lipid mantle. As a result, infants are exposed to high water loss and dry skin, which becomes more susceptible to damage.
Skin of a newborn baby, photo: panthermedia
Skin care for babies
Only approved preparations should be used for the daily care of your baby's skin. Such preparations meet microbiological purity criteria and are free of irritant and allergenic substances, colourings and fragrances. They also have a limited amount of preservatives. The primary method of care is bathing. The optimal water temperature for bathing a newborn baby is 34-36°C with the addition of special unscented preparations with a pH of 5.5-7.0, e.g. oily soaps, syndets, bath oils. After washing, the skin should be rinsed and gently dried paying special attention to the skin folds and buttocks.
Proper care of the umbilical cord stump should also be remembered. At present, it is not advisable to use a 70% spirit solution. The so-called dry care of the stump is recommended. It should not be soaked during bathing and, if soiled by urine or faeces, washed in water with baby soap and gently dried with a towel. Nappies should be worn below the navel to give him access to fresh air. The skin folds and buttocks require special care as these areas are prone to irritation.
Appropriate skin care for babies is very important. The skin of small babies is sensitive and prone to all kinds of trauma and irritation. If you have any doubts about its care, you should consult a specialist.
