UK Baby Study Using a Baby Wash and Lotion Regimen

The skin of a newborn has a sensitive skin barrier relative to an older child and an adult. Newborn's skin, for example, is extremely vulnerable to damage by environmental agents such as harsh detergents, some topical oils, and other irritant chemicals. Evolving perspectives on barrier dysfunction in newborn babies has led to the idea that there may be a window of opportunity in the first few months of a newborn's life to change the environmental agents that their skin is exposed to in order to maximize skin health. These environmental changes could involve the use of optimally formulated wash products and emollients, as well as the removal of all other irritant substances that could damage the skin barrier. Further research is required to identify skincare practices that are harmful and those that are positive, and to ultimately ascertain what the optimum skincare routine should be. An important skincare strategy is to identify an appropriate regimen (use of topical emollients and wash products) that will be used to maintain healthy skin in the future. Baby massage in particular has been shown to enhance the bond between mother and newborn, highlighting that early intervention can support skin health while also being a rewarding experience. Gentle Touch/Early Massage: Apply the lotion with a gentle touch to communicate love to your baby and to create a special bonding moment with skin-to-skin touch. Your touch nurtures baby's social, emotional and physical development. Please take your time to apply consciously the lotion on the whole body of your baby while engaging with her/him. Your touch, light but present, will be consistent across all the face and body areas, it is delicate and soft but more than just applying the lotion. Parents/guardians are using products to help care for their newborn's skin and there is a need to help parents/guardians identify the most appropriate products through research. This study aims to help address this need.