Dry Patches on Baby Skin: Causes & Simple Remedies

Your baby’s skin is sensitive, so it’s important to keep it moisturized and smooth. It’s fairly common for babies to develop dry patches on their body, face, and head. In most cases, this will clear up on its own, but you can always add extra moisture with lotions and oils to help.

In this article, we’ll discuss why your baby’s skin may be dry, along with some home remedies to help.

dry patches on baby skin

What Causes Dry Patches on Baby Skin?

Have you ever wondered, what causes those dry patches on my baby’s skin? As their skin adjusts, it can go through some growing pains. The soaps, lotions, and other products you use on your baby’s skin can also have a significant impact.

Dry skin on newborn babies is common, and you may see some peeling in the first few weeks of their life. Have you noticed some little, white bumps on their skin too? These are called miliaria, and they typically develop within the first month of life. Babies can also develop skin rashes like eczema, or patches on their scalp known as cradle cap.¹

We may think we’re choosing the right products to help moisturize, but these can contain harsh chemicals and other substances that actually do the opposite. They can strip the protective oils, stopping the skin from locking in that moisture.²

Remedies to Help Your Baby’s Dry Skin

To help soften and moisturize, try these remedies for your baby’s dry skin.³

While we all love hot baths and showers, your baby’s skin may not — using lukewarm water helps prevent it from drying out. Limiting bath time to less than 10 minutes gives you more time in your busy schedule while also protecting their soft skin.

Moisturizing, gentle products like Vivvi & Bloom™ have been dermatologist- and pediatrician-tested and keep your baby’s skin feeling smooth and soft. Start your bath time by using the 2-in-1 Wash & Shampoo Cleansing Gel, made with responsibly sourced shea butter. Afterward, massage in a hydrating lotion — such as Vivvi & Bloom™ 2-in-1 Face & Body Whip Lotion — to lock in moisture for 48 hours. To help remove dry flakes, try massaging your baby with Vivvi & Bloom™ 2-in-1 Scalp & Body Massage Oil, made with coconut and sunflower oils, and is great for sensitive skin.

When to Visit a Medical Professional

Dry skin patches can be common in babies, especially newborns.¹ If your baby’s skin continues to be dry and scaly, talk to your pediatrician about recommendations for your baby’s specific needs and healthcare history.

References

1. Schwartz RA, Janusz CA, Janniger CK. Seborrheic Dermatitis: An Overview. Am Fam Physician. 2006;74(1):125-132. Accessed from: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2006/0701/p125.html

2. HealthyChildren.org. Cracked or Dry Skin. Accessed from: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/tips-tools/symptom-checker/Pages/symptomviewer.aspx?symptom=Cracked+or+Dry+Skin

3. HealthyChildren.org. Avoiding Dry Winter Skin in Babies and Toddlers. March 9, 2020. Accessed from: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/skin/Pages/Avoiding-Dry-Winter-Skin-in-Babies-and-Toddlers.aspx

4. NHS. Cradle cap. April 21, 2022. Accessed from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cradle-cap/

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