Using regular soap for kids

It is essential to use baby wash or mild soap that doesn’t lather to clean your baby for the first year. Baby skin products are gentler  and less likely to irritate the skin.

Regular soap is designed to dissolve oily body odor which babies don’t have. You really don’t need to use soap or cleanser at all except the baby’s bottom and fold of the skin around the arms and legs. Once your baby starts eating solids, you may have a few more areas to clean.

You also have to keep in mind that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that babies  bath not more than 3 times a week during the first year.  Frequent bathing can dry out the baby’s skin especially during the winter season.

If your baby has eczema, ask your doctor to recommend a bathing and skin care regimen as part of his treatment. Babies with this condition are particularly sensitive to ingredients in lotion and soap.

A child who does not have eczema can also become sensitive so call your doctor if your baby develops a rash.