![\"plasti_koze2\"](\"https:\/\/obalne-lekarne.si\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/plasti_koze2.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nThe skin is the largest organ in the body in terms of surface area. It consists of three main layers, arranged from the outside inwards: the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis (Figure 1).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The skin acts as a defence and protective barrier. It protects the body against mechanical, thermal and chemical stimuli, as well as the entry of harmful substances from the environment (microorganisms, airborne impurities, UV rays, etc.). At the same time, it prevents the loss of substances naturally present in the body, particularly water. Thanks to its good blood supply and the production of sweat, the skin plays an important role in regulating body temperature. Through sensory receptors and sensory nerves, it connects the body with its surroundings and acts as an organ of touch and pain sensation. Only healthy, undamaged skin can perform these functions continuously.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Differences between children’s skin and adult skin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The skin of babies and young children differs considerably from adult skin:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- In relation to a baby’s body weight and skin surface area, the skin accounts for a proportionally much larger share than it does in adults.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- On average, the skin of young children is five times thinner than adult skin, particularly the outermost horny layer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The horny layer is better hydrated and therefore more permeable than the skin of healthy adults. It is also more sensitive and more prone to dryness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The protective hydrolipid layer, which forms part of the epidermis, is less well developed in babies because their skin glands produce less secretion than those of adults.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The connections between skin cells are looser in babies than in normal adult skin.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A baby’s skin has not yet developed an adequate protective or barrier function. As a result, substances from the environment that come into contact with the skin can penetrate it more easily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- During the first few weeks after birth, the pH of a baby’s skin is close to neutral (around 7). The skin is therefore not yet able to control the growth of microorganisms, which also means that its resistance to infection is lower. The acid mantle develops during the first weeks of life. At the same time, the skin’s microflora develops, normally establishing a balance on the skin’s surface and protecting the baby against skin diseases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The regulation of body temperature through sweating is not yet fully developed in babies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A baby’s skin is still developing and therefore regenerates more quickly, allowing wounds and other skin damage to heal faster.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
When caring for a baby’s skin, we must take these characteristics into account, as they make it more sensitive to the ingredients in skincare and cosmetic products. Certain ingredients in cosmetic products are absorbed more readily by babies and enter their bodies in greater quantities than in adults.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Basic care<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Basic baby care begins with washing and changing the baby in the morning. It is best to wash the baby with lukewarm running water or, if the skin is sensitive or irritated, with boiled water. Oil-based wipes can also be used occasionally, but excessive use may clog the skin’s pores and cause sensitivity. They are therefore particularly suitable when travelling or going for a walk, when dirt needs to be removed from certain areas of the body or when a nappy needs changing but running water is not available nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Always begin basic morning and\/or evening care with the face, gradually working down the body. Do not forget to remove dried milk from behind the ears and to wash the baby’s back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The eyes require special care. Each eye should be cleaned with a fresh piece of gauze or a cotton cloth, wiping from the outer corner towards the inner corner. If the eyes are mildly watery or slightly irritated, rinse them with sterile saline solution. If the condition does not improve, the redness becomes more pronounced or discharge appears in the corners of the eyes, a visit to the paediatrician is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Babies are usually changed every three hours, although one nappy change may be skipped during the night. The nappy area requires particularly careful care, especially on hot summer days, to prevent nappy rash caused by moisture, friction and ammonia in urine and\/or faeces. After washing, apply a thin layer of protective ointment or cream (such as a barrier cream) to the baby’s genital area and bottom. It is best to use good-quality, breathable nappies. It is also important to leave the baby without a nappy for as long as possible. This time can be used for play and a gentle clockwise massage of the baby’s tummy, which helps prevent colic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A baby’s skin should be cleansed gently and mildly. The bath water should be approximately 37\u00b0C, and solid soaps should be used. A mildly acidic syndet (pH 5.5) helps the skin’s acid mantle develop during the first days of life and subsequently stabilise. Cleansing the skin at an acidic pH inhibits the growth of harmful and infectious microorganisms, which thrive at higher pH levels. The same applies to a baby’s hair and scalp. It is therefore recommended to alternate between washing the baby with soap one day and with water only the next, helping to prevent the skin from drying out. For babies who are a few months old, liquid body and hair washes can also be used. Make sure that these products do not contain artificial colourants, strong fragrances or ingredients that irritate the skin and eyes. Products enriched with moisturising oils, such as almond oil, are recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On hot days, pay particular attention to the skin folds behind the ears, under the arms, in the groin and behind the knees. Care for these areas with almond oil and, if necessary, apply powder (talcum powder). Wipe the ears with a cotton cloth and clean the healed umbilical area in the same way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Basic skincare products<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Mild, neutral cosmetic products that do not irritate a baby’s skin are particularly suitable for baby care. It is important that most of their ingredients are of natural origin and that the products have been dermatologically tested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For the face and entire body, including daily care of the nappy area, a barrier ointment with olive oil or a cream with almond oil is most suitable. These ointments and creams have anti-inflammatory properties and are intended for caring for healthy skin and protecting mildly irritated skin. After application, they form a thin protective layer on the skin (usually containing petroleum jelly, lanolin, etc.). The unsaturated fatty acids in moisturising oils help make the skin smooth and supple. If necessary, creams, ointments and lotions containing dexpanthenol can also be recommended for body care. Dexpanthenol promotes skin epithelialisation and helps maintain skin hydration by binding moisture. In cases of irritated skin, redness and mild nappy rash, additional creams, ointments or pastes are recommended. The ingredients most commonly found in these products include talc, which reduces friction on the skin; zinc oxide, which has an astringent effect; bismuth subgallate, which has a mild antiseptic effect; chamomile extract, which has anti-inflammatory properties; and fish oil, which is rich in vitamin A and promotes epithelialisation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Soaps are among the first products used to cleanse a baby’s body. Alkaline soaps with a pH of 9\u201310 are not recommended in baby skincare, as they alter the skin’s pH. Instead, syndets are recommended. These are soap substitutes with a pH of 5.5, containing particularly mild ingredients suited to sensitive baby skin. They gently cleanse and protect the skin and help restore its natural lipid balance, particularly when they also contain ingredients that replenish oils and retain moisture in the skin, such as almond oil. This helps prevent irritation and dryness during washing and bathing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the first six months and up to around one year of age, a mild alkaline soap can be used to wash the baby’s hair. Combined body and hair wash products are available for older babies and children. Shampoos should be effective without irritating the eyes. They usually contain surfactants that are sufficiently mild not to irritate the skin or eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oils, particularly almond oil, are used both to cleanse the skin and remove traces of creams and powders, and to prevent moisture loss from the skin. They spread easily over the skin and are only partially absorbed. Most form a film on the skin that prevents it from drying out and reduces friction caused by clothing and nappies. Some paediatricians do not recommend the use of oils because they may interfere with the skin’s normal ability to breathe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Powders can also be used to care for a baby’s skin. Their main function is to absorb moisture on the skin and protect it against irritation and friction from clothing. They also have a mild cooling effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Managing minor problems and the most common symptoms of illness<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Most days with a baby follow an established routine, but parents may sometimes be caught off guard by minor problems. These are the moments when babies need their parents even more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Table 1: Possible problems in babies and recommended care measures<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Possible problem<\/th> Symptoms<\/th> Care measures and advice<\/th><\/tr> Cradle cap<\/td> Thick, yellowish, flaky patches on the scalp.<\/td> Apply almond oil. If the area becomes increasingly red and the scales spread to the face, a visit to the paediatrician is recommended.<\/td><\/tr> Facial acne or skin rashes<\/td> Scattered pinkish-red papules; red, itchy patches of skin; rashes.<\/td> Basic care through washing. If the condition is particularly pronounced, the rash spreads, scales or blisters appear and\/or the baby develops a fever, a visit to the paediatrician is recommended.<\/td><\/tr> Oral thrush<\/td> White patches on the oral mucosa. In more widespread cases, reddened, flaky skin with white patches may also appear in the nappy area.<\/td> Use a topical antifungal medicine. Sugary drinks are not recommended. If the infection becomes more widespread, interferes with feeding or causes nappy rash, a visit to the paediatrician is recommended.<\/td><\/tr> Nappy rash<\/td> Red or pink skin around the genitals and bottom, which becomes dry and flaky. In more severe cases, rashes, blisters and ulcers may develop.<\/td> Change nappies frequently; wash with boiled water; dry the affected skin thoroughly; use more intensive protective skincare products (powder pastes, fish-oil ointments). If blisters, ulcers or scales with a white surface layer appear, a visit to the paediatrician is recommended.<\/td><\/tr> Colic<\/td> At certain times of the day, the baby cries uncontrollably and draws their legs up towards their body or repeatedly stretches them out.<\/td> Ensure that the breastfeeding mother follows a suitable diet; burp the baby regularly; massage the baby’s tummy; offer baby tea containing aniseed, fennel or caraway to relieve bloating. Caraway syrup may also be used, or SAB Simplex suspension in more severe cases.<\/td><\/tr> Teething<\/td> Painful, swollen gums.<\/td> Massage the gums with suitable gels or drops containing a local anaesthetic; offer chilled teething rings. For severe pain, paracetamol suppositories may be used.<\/td><\/tr> Fever<\/td> Temperature above 38.5\u00b0C.<\/td> Reduce the fever with paracetamol suppositories or, at a later stage, syrup; use cooling compresses. If the temperature does not return to normal within 48 hours, a visit to the paediatrician is recommended.<\/td><\/tr> Common cold<\/td> Runny nose and cough.<\/td> Regularly rinse the nasal passages with saline solution and remove mucus using a nasal aspirator. Relieve the cough with suitable suppositories or syrup available from a pharmacy. If the baby has difficulty breathing, wheezes or develops a fever, take them to the paediatrician.<\/td><\/tr> Digestive problems<\/td> Vomiting and diarrhoea (loose stools).<\/td> Continue breastfeeding more frequently or provide suitable formula with added electrolytes. After six months of age, offer sufficient fluids by the spoonful, such as rosehip or blueberry tea sweetened with glucose, and rehydration sachets if necessary. If the baby refuses fluids and the diarrhoea does not subside within six hours, a visit to the paediatrician is recommended.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Nappy rash<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Of all inflammatory skin conditions in babies, nappy dermatitis, also known as nappy rash, is the most common. It is a non-allergic inflammation of the skin in the nappy area. It can be caused by one or more of the following factors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- moisture, heat and friction;<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- contact with urine, faeces or both;<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- mechanical or chemical irritation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Milder forms of inflammation appear as simple redness (erythema), while the skin may subsequently become dry and flaky. In more severe cases, rashes (papules), blisters, erosions and hypertrophic papules may develop. All these symptoms may be accompanied by itching, which most commonly occurs between the ages of four and twelve months. The main causes of dermatitis are urine and faeces, as newborn babies urinate and pass stools several times a day. Dermatitis is less common in breastfed babies. The urine and stools of breastfed babies are less alkaline and less irritating than those of formula-fed babies. Diet therefore also plays a role in the development of dermatitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If redness appears in the nappy area, nappies should be changed more frequently and additional skincare products should be used, such as powder paste, fish-oil ointment or zinc oxide ointments. These products soothe the skin, provide more intensive protection and promote regeneration. Wash the skin with lukewarm water only, as soaps and wipes may cause sensitivity. Leave the baby without a nappy for as long as possible so that the skin can dry thoroughly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the nappy rash does not start to improve within two to three days or becomes worse, parents should take the baby to the paediatrician, who will assess the severity of the inflammation and, if necessary, prescribe a non-fluorinated corticosteroid. In such cases, a fungal infection (small spots with a white surface layer) or a bacterial infection may also be present. These can be treated with an appropriate antifungal medicine or antibiotic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Acne and skin rashes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The appearance of the first cases of acne neonatorum on the face, even during the first few days of life (most commonly after 14 days, and rarely later), is a sign of the baby’s skin clearing. Acne develops as a result of maternal hormones (androgens) passing through the placenta to the foetus, stimulating increased activity of the sebaceous glands. After a few months, the acne usually disappears on its own with basic skincare. If the pinkish-red papules are very dense and cause discomfort to the baby, it is advisable to consult a paediatrician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Small spots or skin rashes may also appear on other parts of the body, most often as a result of sweating. They usually disappear within a few days with basic skincare. If the symptoms become more severe and the rash does not disappear but continues to spread, particularly if infiltrated lesions, scales or blisters develop alongside a fever, it is essential to visit a paediatrician. The paediatrician will assess the condition, determine whether there are any complications or possible childhood illnesses and prescribe appropriate medicine if necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cradle cap<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Another relatively common condition is cradle cap. Yellowish, flaky patches first appear on the scalp, usually on the crown of the head. They may come away easily or spread and become more pronounced across the scalp. In such cases, almond oil can be used. Gently massage it into the scalp in the morning, then cover the baby’s head with a cotton cap and leave it on until the afternoon. In the afternoon, comb out the softened scales and wash the baby’s hair if necessary. Repeat the procedure for several consecutive days until all the scales have come away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the flaky area does not clear but becomes increasingly red and spreads to the face, consult a paediatrician, who will prescribe appropriate medicine based on their assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oral thrush (Candidosis neonatalis)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The most common cause of changes to the skin and oral mucosa during the first ten days after birth is oral thrush. This is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans, which may be transmitted to the newborn in the maternity ward or during passage through the mother’s birth canal. The oral mucosa and lips are often covered with white patches that cannot be removed using clean gauze alone. A topical antifungal medicine is required (Daktarin oral gel).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the fungal infection spreads to the bottom and genital area, where the skin becomes red and flaky with a white surface layer, the baby must be examined by a paediatrician. The paediatrician will assess the severity of the infection and prescribe a suitable antifungal medicine. Babies with oral thrush should also avoid sugary drinks, as these encourage fungal growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Colic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Colic may develop in babies shortly after the first few weeks of life, most commonly around the third week, and is more pronounced in boys. At certain times of the day, usually in the afternoon and towards the evening, the baby may begin crying uncontrollably for no apparent reason, drawing their legs up towards their body or repeatedly stretching them out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Doctors have not yet been able to establish exactly what causes colic. It is thought to be associated with an imbalance in the intestinal flora or air swallowed during feeding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parents can help by holding the baby in a position that they find most comfortable, for example against the parent’s shoulder or on their tummy. Some babies feel better when undressed and given a gentle clockwise tummy massage. Breastfeeding mothers should pay particular attention to their diet and avoid foods that cause bloating or are heavily spiced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Babies should be burped regularly during feeding. Before feeds, parents can offer small spoonfuls of baby tea to relieve bloating, containing aniseed, fennel or caraway. Caraway syrup may also be used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In more severe cases, or if colic occurs approximately half an hour after feeding and organic causes of the abdominal pain have been ruled out, parents may use SAB Simplex suspension. Simeticone breaks down foam, allowing intestinal gas to be released naturally or absorbed through the intestinal wall. One possible cause of colic is milk-based nutrition, which can produce large amounts of foam for several hours as it passes through the digestive tract. Trapped air cannot escape, resulting in painful bloating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the problems persist, it is essential to consult a paediatrician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First teeth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When the first teeth begin to emerge, painful and swollen gums can be a real nuisance. During this period, parents can massage the baby’s gums with a clean finger and a suitable gel or drops to relieve pain and soothe the gums. These products contain a local anaesthetic that numbs the gums and are suitable for babies over three months of age. Babies may also enjoy chilled teething rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When the teeth begin to break through, particularly the last milk teeth, fever and diarrhoea may also occur. More severe pain and fever can be relieved with paracetamol suppositories. If the baby has diarrhoea, make sure they receive enough fluids and, if necessary, offer suitable formula with added electrolytes to prevent dehydration. If the diarrhoea is severe and the baby refuses fluids, a visit to the paediatrician is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Common cold<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Respiratory illnesses are the most common conditions affecting babies. A baby’s nose is relatively small and the nasal passages are quite narrow, meaning that even a mild cold can quickly cause congestion. As babies have not yet learned to breathe through their mouths, a runny or blocked nose can cause considerable discomfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parents should therefore regularly rinse the baby’s nose with saline solution and remove mucus using a nasal aspirator. Regular nasal cleansing helps prevent the pathogens responsible for inflammation (viruses and bacteria) from spreading from the nasal cavity to the middle ear. The Eustachian tube, which connects the nasal cavity to the middle ear, is particularly short and wide in babies, making them more susceptible to middle ear infections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the baby develops a cough and catarrh, the cough can be relieved with suitable suppositories containing essential oils. These act locally in the respiratory tract, promote the secretion of bronchial mucus and thin thick, sticky secretions in the upper respiratory tract, making it easier to clear the mucus. In later months, when the baby is able to cough up mucus, expectorant syrups can be used, preferably herbal preparations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the baby develops a fever (above 38.5\u00b0C), the temperature should be reduced with paracetamol in the form of suppositories or, at a later stage, syrup. Cooling compresses can also be applied. If the temperature does not return to normal within 48 hours, consult a paediatrician. A paediatrician should also be consulted if the baby has difficulty breathing and\/or wheezes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Digestive problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Vomiting and diarrhoea are usually caused by a gastrointestinal viral infection. Mild cases often resolve without major problems with appropriate care at home. Above all, it is important to ensure that the baby receives enough fluids to reduce the risk of dehydration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Breastfed babies should continue breastfeeding more frequently. Babies who are bottle-fed can be given a suitable milk substitute with added electrolytes (electrolyte-enriched formula). For babies over six months of age, parents can replace lost electrolytes with rehydration sachets and offer small spoonfuls of rosehip or blueberry tea sweetened with glucose. If the baby refuses fluids and the diarrhoea does not subside within six hours, a paediatrician must be consulted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Tips for summer days<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Babies under one year of age should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Make sure they wear suitable headwear and enjoy the outdoors with them in the shade. Offer them enough fluids and ensure that they are dressed appropriately. Older children can spend some time in the sun during the early morning or late afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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1. Introduction From the moment their baby is born, parents devote a great deal of attention to their care. Although they naturally want to provide their child with the very best, the golden rule of baby care is that nothing should be overdone. While baby care can be understood as all the attention and care […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false},"vrsta_nasveta":[],"class_list":["post-4286","nasvet","type-nasvet","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/obalne-lekarne.si\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/nasvet\/4286","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/obalne-lekarne.si\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/nasvet"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/obalne-lekarne.si\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/nasvet"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/obalne-lekarne.si\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4286"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"vrsta_nasveta","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/obalne-lekarne.si\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/vrsta_nasveta?post=4286"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}