6 easy home remedies to protect baby's sensitive skin during monsoon

The rainy season means a respite from searing heat of summer months, but it is also about humidity and dampness. Top it with the fact that it is the ideal breeding ground for skin infections and irritations, especially in babies. Excessive moisture, fungal infection, mosquito bite, or temperature extremes are not your baby's best friend.

Although medical care is necessary for serious or chronic conditions, there are many safe, natural treatments available at home for mild skin irritations. During these rainy months, parents need to be even more cautious about hygiene, clothing and skin care.

To keep the skin healthy, hydrate them and also protect skin from the outside environment as far as possible without being harsh, and avoid application of over-the-counter creams in most cases.

Also read | Healthy newborn care tips every new parent should know

Here are 6 easy home remedies, suggested by Dr Neha Kapoor, a Noida-based pediatric dermatologist, for curing and preventing skin problems in babies during the monsoon

• Coconut Oil Massage

Coconut oil is noted not only for its natural antifungal properties, but antibacterial properties as well. An effective massage is not only a moisturiser but also a way to avoid fungal infections because of humidity. For optimal results though, virgin coconut oil is recommended.

• Neem Water Bath

Everything about Neem leaves is antiseptic in nature. Bathing a baby in water with boiled leaves provides your baby natural protection from rashes, itching and skin infections.

Also read | Protect your baby's delicate skin: Look for natural-phenoxyethanol free products

• Aloe Vera Gel

The gel from fresh aloe vera cools and calms the burning skin, eases the redness and its hydrating action is so mild. Thin coating to rash-prone areas; always patch test first!

• Oatmeal Bath

Oatmeal is skin soothing in nature. Powdered oatmeal sprinkled in lukewarm bathwater can soothe prickly heat and itchy skin, softening it and making it irritation-free.

• Turmeric Paste

A thin paste (combined with water or coconut oil) can provide an inhospitable environment for the growth of bacteria in small areas of rash to block infection and promote healing.

• Loose cotton clothing

Clothes made from cotton allows the skin to stay dry and reduces sweat accumulation. Tip: Never choose synthetic fabrics during monsoon as they tend to trap moisture, aggravating skin irritation.