Villa Liza moms learn about baby skincare

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She confirms that although exposure to the sun has similar effects on baby skin as it does on adult skin, babies’ skin is considerably thinner and, therefore, more vulnerable to dehydration, as water is easily lost through the skin.

Moms need to implement multiple protective methods to take care of their baby’s skin in excessively warm weather conditions.

These practices should include:

• Avoiding the sun wherever possible.

• Wearing sun hats and clothing baby in long-sleeved, lightweight and light-coloured garments. Unlike dark colours, light colours reflect the heat and keep babies’ skin cooler.

• Although your new baby’s skin is more vulnerable to sunburn, do not apply sunscreen on a baby who is younger than six months old, as their skin is still very sensitive.

Hlela advises parents to avoid direct exposure to sunlight, especially for babies who are younger than six months old. While shade only provides partial protection against UV rays, it does, however, keep baby cool. Hydration for baby is critical, with breast milk and/or formula providing babies with all the hydration they need.

She adds that baby and toddler skin contains much less brown pigment (melanin), which is what protects us from UV light. This means that if a baby gets sunburnt or overly exposed to UV rays, the long-term risk of melanoma cancers increases significantly.

Furthermore, moms need to avoid using adult skincare products on babies’ skin at all costs, as these products may have ingredients that are harmful to babies’ delicate skin.

“Moms should use a well-researched baby moisturiser that keeps babies’ skin moist for longer to avoid dryness, which can result in more serious skin conditions.

“Your baby’s delicate skin loses moisture five times faster than adult skin, so in conjunction with adequate sun protection, it is essential to follow a regular moisturising routine,” concludes Hlela.