In the womb, a baby’s skin is protected from the amniotic fluid with a cheesy substance called vernix caseosa, that protects baby’s skin from drying out and shedding.
When a baby is born, this cheesy substance is rubbed off exposing baby to the world’s elements. You may notice peeling skin from birth after the vernix is wiped off.
Your baby’s skin will peel a layer or two as the protective coating (vernix caseosa) is no longer there.
How do you take care of your newborn’s peeling skin?
1.) Do not peel or exfoliate baby’s skin
2.) Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer
3.) Be gentle when bathing baby
4.) Avoid any chemicals and fragrances that may come in contact with baby
5.) Make sure baby is drinking enough breastmilk or formula to keep hydrated.
If peeling persists for more than 3 weeks, the skin is red, bleeding or irritated; please seek a consultation with your baby’s healthcare provider as this is not a variation of normal newborn skin peeling.
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