Winter Skincare Tips For Children: Pediatrician’s Guide To Protecting Sensitive Skin

Winter is a magical season filled with the joys of holidays and snow, but for children, it can bring unique skin challenges. Kids sensitive and fragile skin requires special care as the frigid air, low humidity and frequent indoor and outdoor temperature fluctuations remove moisture leading to dryness, irritation, and cracking of their delicate skin. In some cases, this dryness causes redness and itching of which children often aggravate them by scratching.

Understanding the structural differences between adult and infant skin is crucial for developing a winter skincare routine. Baby skin, thinner and more fragile than adult skin, takes about two to four years to fully mature. The underdeveloped outermost layer, known as the skin barrier, plays a vital role in retaining moisture and defending against irritants. For infants, this barrier is 30% thinner than in adults, making them more susceptible to transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This can result in visibly dry and flaky skin, especially during winter when environmental conditions are harsh.

Common Winter Skin Issues in Children

Several skin concerns emerge for children during winter:

Chapped Lips

This is another very common issue and due to dry winds, poor water intake, and an overall dry season. The children end up peeling off the dry layer on their lips that often leads to bleeding and soreness.

Dry Skin

Cold winds tend to drain natural oils from the skin, making it dry, rough, and itchy. Sometimes, it leads to conditions such as eczema or causes rosy cheeks looking cute but showing irritation.

Dandruff

Winter dryness doesn't spare the scalp. Hot water baths also make things worse as it washes away the natural oils on the scalp, making it itchy and flaky. Children who may scratch the scalp would make it visible with flakes.

Expert-Recommended Winter Skincare Tips

While these issues may seem concerning, simple steps as shared by Dr Kushal Agrawal, HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics which can help make a significant difference in maintaining healthy skin throughout the winter months. Here's a list to follow:

1. Gentle Bathing Habits

Bathing is not required daily in winter and may even exacerbate dryness. For most children, bathing two to three times a week is sufficient unless local traditions require more frequent bathing. Bathtimes should be brief, no longer than 10 to 15 minutes, and lukewarm water should be used to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils. Avoid bubble baths and harsh soaps that can upset the pH balance of the skin. After bathing, pat the skin dry with a soft, warm towel and immediately apply a moisturizer to lock in hydration.

2. The Benefits of Oil Massage

Oil massages are not just a cultural tradition; they are an effective way to nourish and protect your child's skin. Pediatricians recommend using safflower, sunflower, or almond oil for massages as these promote skin barrier recovery. Avoid mustard or olive oil, which can irritate the skin. Warm the oil slightly before applying and massage gently, avoiding vigorous rubbing.

3. Moisturization Is Key

Choose emollient-based moisturizers that are free of dyes, perfumes, and preservatives to minimize irritation. The petrolatum-containing products are especially helpful in forming a barrier against moisture loss. Apply the moisturizer immediately after bathing and as needed throughout the day, focusing on areas prone to dryness like hands, cheeks, and knees.

4. Dress for Protection

Dressing children appropriately is essential to shield their skin from the harsh winter elements. Opt for soft, breathable layers of cotton clothing that can be adjusted based on the temperature. Ensure that any woolen clothing worn is lined with cotton to prevent direct contact with the skin, which can cause irritation.

5. Maintain Indoor Humidity

Indoor heating, though necessary for warmth, tends to dry out the air. This worsens skin problems. A humidifier will ensure humidity in your home is adequate. In this way, the air does not draw moisture from the skin. Concomitantly, remind your child to drink lots of water to hydrate from within.

6. Special Care for Chapped Lips

Apply child-friendly lip balm with enriching substances, such as shea butter or lanolin. Flavor-free balms will not have the risk of getting eaten into a puffed lip, as this often is exacerbated by children licking dryness out.

7. Scalp Care

When a child is developing dandruff, use an even mildly moisturizing children-friendly shampoo on your little one and cool water, gently massaging their scalp as they're washed, making the effort of removing flaking, irritation-inducing flakes more comfortable on them.

When to Consult a Pediatrician

If your child’s skin issues persist despite these measures, or if conditions like eczema worsen, it’s essential to seek advice from a pediatrician. Persistent dryness, redness, or itching may require prescription-strength treatments or further evaluation.

Children's skin, especially during winter, is a sensitive area that requires extra love and care. Such mindful practices as using the right oils and moisturizing regularly and protecting it from harsh weather will help your child develop soft, healthy skin for every season. This is not only a matter of comfort but also instills lifelong habits in caring for one's skin.

Dr Kushal Agrawal is HOD with the Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics at KVR Hospital, Kashipur, India