Your Baby's Skin in Hot Weather and Air Conditioning

A baby's skin is thinner than an adult's and loses moisture faster. In our homes a baby moves between the heat outside and dry air-conditioned air in the same day, so dry patches on the cheeks or small heat spots on the neck and back are common. The daily bath need not be long: a few minutes in lukewarm water is enough, with a gentle, fragrance-free wash only where it is needed. Afterwards pat the skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing, and mind the creases of the neck, behind the ears and between the fingers. Apply a fragrance-free baby moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp, so it holds the moisture in. On hot days dress your baby in one light cotton layer and do not over-wrap them indoors; overheating is one of the most common causes of heat rash. In an air-conditioned room keep the temperature moderate and point the airflow away from the crib. Before trying any new product, put a little on a small patch of skin and wait a day. If a rash spreads, or redness comes with a fever, or flaking does not clear, the doctor is the one to find the cause and the treatment.