Dry skin in babies and children

Dry, cracked skin (xerosis cutanea) in infants and children can be genetic, or can be linked to atopic dermatitis Dry skin is usually associated with symptoms such as flaking, itching, redness and, often in very young babies, skin peeling (desquamation).

Some infants and children are simply predisposed to having dry skin. However, regardless, babies and toddlers are generally more prone to dry skin because the sebaceous glands which produce sebum – a mixture of fats that keep skin soft – are not yet active on their skin. This means that washing a baby’s skin can actually worsen dryness, especially if using liquid cleansers or harsh, foaming soaps which cause irritation and distress.

Dry skin: use Eudermic Cleansing Base, a mild non-foaming cleanser, which gently cleanses the skin without stripping it of the elements that keep it soft. Eudermic Cleansing Base can also be used as an alternative to generic shampoos, which often cause itching and irritation.
Very dry skin: use Nourishing Cream after washing with Eudermic Cleansing Base and drying. Rich in fats, Nourishing Cream helps to soften the skin.

Drinking a lot of water does not necessarily equal hydrated, moisturized skin. The human body is made up of 75% water, so it’s not something the skin is lacking. Drinking more water than the body needs can actually put a strain on the organs responsible for urine production and collection. The immediate result is a continuous need to urinate. In the longer run, drinking excess water also causes water retention, especially on the abdomen, thighs and buttocks. The swelling caused by water retention can cause edema, or the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of the body. This can contribute to or worsen cellulite (panniculitis adiposa).