Dry skin is the uncomfortable, itchy, scaly sensation that many of us are familiar with.It can affect any part of your body, most commonly hands, arms, and legs. Dry skin occurs when oils and moisture are lost from the skin barrier. Living in Canada means having to deal with harsh, dry winters which can cause dry skin or make already dry skin even worse. Dry skin is common for everyone regardless of age; however, some people are more prone to it than others. The best routine for caring for a baby with dry skin focuses on gentle cleansing and regular moisturization with products that support the skin barrier (1). 

Daily use of a fragrance-free, thick moisturizer applied to the entire body - especially after bathing - is recommended to reduce transepidermal water loss which is the natural loss of water through the skin and maintains skin hydration. Moisturizers should be free of fragrances and sensitizing agents (1,3). 

Bathing does not need to be daily for babies. When bathing, it is best to use cleansers specified for infants with mild, pH-neutral or mildly acidic as these are less likely to disrupt the skin barrier. After bath time, pat the skin while still leaving a thin layer of moisture. Avoid rubbing the skin with a towel can cause skin irritation.  Moisturize immediately with a fragrance free cream. This seals in the moisture (1,3). 

If you notice your little one is experiencing dry or irritated skin, consider adding Beta-Glucan to your bath. Beta-Glucan is a fiber that has been shown to help improve skin healing and hydration. Oats naturally contain 3-5% Beta-Glucan. If you want a more concentrated Beta-Glucan you can try by Dr Mom Beta-Glucan bath which contains 23% Beta-Glucan made from organic barley. 

For diapered areas, frequent diaper changes and the use of barrier creams can help prevent and manage irritation. The By Dr. Mom Glucan cream works well as a barrier cream! The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes use of thick, fragrance-free creams or ointments. And ointments may be substituted if creams cause irritation (2). 

With a proper routine, using gentle cleansing with mild cleansers and daily application of fragrance-free thick moisture, can help for a baby with dry skin (1,4). 

References

1. Schachner L, Andriessen A, Benjamin L, Bree A, Lechman P, Pinera-Llano A, Kircik L, Hebert A. The Importance of Skincare for Neonates and Infants: An Algorithm. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021 Nov 1; 20(11):1195-1205.

2. Schoch JJ, Anderson KJ, Jones AE, Tollefson MM. Atopic Dermatitis: Update on Skin-Directed Management: Clinical Report. Pediatrics. 2025 May 19; 155(6):e2025071812

3. Yonezawa K, Haruna M, Matsuzaki M, Shiraishi M, Kojima R. Effects of moisturizing skincare on skin barrier function and the prevention of skin problems in 3-month-old infants: A randomized controlled trial. J Dermatol. 2019 Jan; 45(1):24-30

4. Cooke A, Bedwell C, Campbell M, McGowan L, Ersser SJ, Lavender T. Skin care for healthy babies at term: a systematic review of the evidence. Midwifery. 2018 Jan; 56:29-43