Baby & Toddler Skincare: The Do’s and Don’ts for Happy, Healthy Skin

A baby’s skin is soft, snuggly, and oh-so-sensitive. From diaper rashes to drool chafing and everything in between, caring for little ones’ skin can sometimes feel like a full-time job. But with the right know-how, you can keep your baby or toddler’s skin healthy, calm, and protected, without overcomplicating things.

Here’s your guide to the do’s and don’ts of baby & toddler skincare:

The Do’s

1. Do Keep It Simple

Stick to gentle, fragrance-free products made specifically for babies. Their skin is thinner and

more absorbent than adults, so less is more.

Look for labels like: “fragrance-free,” “hypoallergenic,” and “dermatologist-tested.”

2. Do Use Lukewarm Water for Baths

Hot water can dry out baby’s skin and strip natural oils. Keep baths short (5–10 minutes) and use

lukewarm water.

3. Do Moisturize Daily

Moisturizing helps lock in hydration and prevent dryness, especially after baths. Use a rich,

unscented cream or ointment rather than lotion, which can be too thin. Cerave cream is a great

choice!

4. Do Change Diapers Promptly

Frequent diaper changes and a layer of barrier cream (like zinc oxide) can help prevent diaper

rash. If a rash does appear, make sure to apply a thick layer and often! Cerave healing ointment

mixed with zinc oxide works wonders!

5. Do Protect from the Sun

Use wide-brimmed hats, lightweight long sleeves, and shade for babies under 6 months. For

older babies and toddlers, use a mineral-based sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) on

exposed skin. Favorite brands include: Daily Shade: Babe Shade or Think Baby.

The Don’ts

1. Avoid essential oils

Even “natural” or “organic” products can be too harsh. Essential oils, fragrance, and exfoliants

can irritate a baby’s delicate skin.

2. Don’t Bathe Too Often

Daily baths aren’t usually necessary for babies. 2–3 times per week is often enough, unless

they’ve had a big mess.

Over-bathing can lead to dryness or eczema flares.

3. Don’t Ignore Rashes That Linger

While many rashes are harmless and temporary, persistent or worsening rashes should be

checked by a dermatologist. Don’t self-treat with over-the-counter products unless advised.

5. Don’t use Powder

Talc-based powders are no longer recommended due to inhalation risks. Stick with barrier

creams like zinc oxide, Cerave healing ointment, or Aquaphor.

Bonus Tip: Keep a Diaper Bag Baby & Toddler Skin Kit

Toss in a few essentials like:

• A small tube of barrier cream

• Gentle baby wipes (fragrance-free)

• Moisturizer

• A sun hat or baby-safe sunscreen

  
  

You’ll be ready for any skin situation on the go.

Baby and toddler skin is delicate, but it doesn’t need a dozen products. Stick with simple,

gentle, and consistent care. And always remember: moisture is magic.