Good morning mamas & papas!

Today we are going to be looking at things to consider when choosing the right skincare for your baby.  Babies have far more sensitive skin than adults.  Did you know what most babies will develop a rash in the first 6 months of their lives?  Harsh environmental factors such as detergents, soaps, dyes, chemicals, sun and even your jumper can bring your baby out in a rash.  Always be sure to check with a doctor though, just in case there isn't something more serious.  

Here at the Baby & Toddler Awards, we see and try a wide range of baby skincare products.  So we've compiled a list of things to consider when choosing skincare for your baby, as creams can provide a protective barrier against environmental factors.  At the same time, skincare products themselves can irritate babies, so you need to choose the best product for YOUR baby.

Tip 1 - Use your intuition 
You know your baby best and probably have a feel for when their skin gets irritated or why.  So choose products with this in mind.

Tip 2 - Do a patch test
It goes without saying to do a patch test on your baby when trying out new baby products.  Try a small patch on the arm or leg (not face) 24hours to 48 hours before in case there is any reaction

Tip 3 - Choose products designed for babies
This may sound obvious, but of course baby products have been designed specifically for the sensitive skin of babies.  Check the product is dermatologically tested.

Tip 4 - Don't overload your baby with skincare
Try one cream at a time.  Whether you are just trying to keep your baby's skin hydrated and smooth, or you need to find the right nappy cream - try not to overload your baby's skin using multiple products

Tip 5 - Don't fix what ain't broke
If a skincare product works - stick with it!  It's best not to expose your baby to too many types of products.  If something works for you and your baby, stick with that product.

Tip 6 - Look at the ingredients.
Look for things that YOUR BABY needs.  Do you need it to be Hypoallergenic?  Do you need SPF as it is summer, or maybe it is winter and you have a very fair baby?  Is it oil or cream based?  Organic ingredients mean there are no harsh pesticides in the ingredients.  'Natural ingredients' this is less regulated, but the idea is, products which ingredients from nature are more packed full of nutrition, are less environmentally harsh and don't contain man-made harsh chemicals.  Don't be put off if a product isn't natural though - many SPFs are man-made.  Think about your baby, and what your baby needs.