Many parents believe that children’s skin is naturally good and that applying skin care products is unnecessary. However, this mindset can lead to hidden damage to their children’s skin. Children’s skin is more delicate than that of adults, and improper care can lead to problems such as dryness, itching, and allergies. Research indicates that about 50% of children’s skin problems are related to improper care. Scientific skin care is fundamental to maintaining children’s skin health.
Characteristics of Children’s Skin
Children’s skin is more fragile than that of adults due to several reasons:
Children’s skin is thinner, with an infant’s skin being only one-third the thickness of an adult’s, making it more susceptible to external stimuli.
Children have less melanin in their skin, making them more prone to sunburn.
Before puberty, children’s sebaceous glands are underdeveloped, resulting in less sebum secretion and poor natural moisturizing ability, leading to dryness.
Children’s skin barrier function is weak, making it easier for UV rays, bacteria, chemical irritants, and allergens to invade, causing skin problems.
Consequences of Improper Care
If not properly cared for, children’s skin can develop more problems. For example, outdoor activities expose children to UV rays, which can cause sunburn and photodermatitis. Cumulative damage over time may increase the risk of pigmentation and wrinkles in adulthood. In dry seasons like winter and autumn, children’s cheeks and hands are more prone to cracking and redness. Saliva can repeatedly irritate facial skin, causing “saliva rash.” Urine and stool stimulation, or failure to change diapers in time, can cause “diaper rash,” leading to redness, swelling, and even rupture of the genital and buttock areas.
Scientific Skin Care for Children
Parents should realize that children need proper skin care from birth:
Do not bathe babies within 24 hours after birth; keep the vernix on to protect the skin.
For babies aged 0-1, use warm water for cleaning and apply baby-specific moisturizer. Use mild body wash 2-3 times a week.
After each diaper change, apply zinc oxide-containing diaper cream.
Conclusion
Proper skin care is essential for children’s health. By understanding the characteristics of children’s skin and following scientific care practices, parents can help prevent and alleviate common skin problems, ensuring their children’s comfort and well-being.
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