- Use a wide-tooth comb or soft-bristle brush.
- Never try to comb out kinky hair when it’s dry.
- Apply a small amount of oil or cream moisturizer to help detangle the hair.
It is also important to moisturize your baby’s hair weekly to keep it soft and manageable. Which regimen works best for your child will depend on their hair structure and texture. This may involve a bit of experimenting.
Here are some options to try:
- Look for a natural product such as jojoba oil, emu oil, avocado oil, virgin coconut oil, or almond oil at natural food stores.
- Create your own moisturizer by mixing a light oil (sweet almond oil or light virgin olive oil) with natural ingredients (rosemary or lavender).
- Distribute a small amount of the moisturizer onto your fingertips and gently sweep it through the hair and onto the scalp.
Laundering
Wash baby blankets, sheets and clothing before and after use, using fragrance-free detergents.
You should wash your baby’s clothing separate, especially if the following is true:
- They have eczema or sensitive skin
- Someone in your household works around dangerous chemicals
- You prefer heavily scented detergent
Sun protection
Shade is the best protection. If there’s no natural shade, use an umbrella, canopy or stroller hood. Dress your baby in sun-protective clothing, including a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt, pants, wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
Minimal use of sunscreen is advised for children younger than 6 months of age, but you can apply a small amount of sunscreen to all skin not covered by clothing if shade and adequate clothing aren’t available.
Use sunscreens with broad-spectrum protection, water resistance and an SPF of 30 or higher. Sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are less likely to irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming.
“Maintaining healthy skincare habits during infancy, such as protecting your baby from the sun, can have a long-lasting impact on your child’s health,” Lee shares.
Caring for a newborn can be intimidating, especially if you are a first-time parent. But, if you’re worried that just means you care and are already thinking like a parent with their child’s best interest in mind. Hopefully, these tips will ease your mind a bit.