Parenting can be an exhilarating experience, but it is also a challenging journey with tons of questions. Among these concerns is the issue of what products you should use for your newborn. The market offers several choices that may make you feel overwhelmed about making the right choice for your little bundle of joy. One product that parents often wonder whether to apply or not is aquaphor. Here's all you need to know!
What Is Aquaphor?
Aquaphor, in simple terms, is a type of ointment used as a skin protectant and moisturizer for minor injuries and dry skin conditions including eczema, diaper rash, chafing, and cracked lips among others.
Did You Know? - The word "aquaphor" comes from its original German name "Aquafor." - It was initially created in Germany for healing burns.
Is It Safe For A Newborn Baby's Delicate Skin?
Yes! Experts generally find aquaphor safe enough to use on baby's delicate skin since it contains no fragrances or preservatives that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Additionally, doctors usually recommend gentle and unscented skincare products such as petroleum jelly to treat common infant ailments like diaper rash and cradle cap; therefore, aquaphor shares similar qualities.
However, - Though the chances are minimal due to this rare occurrence' high-level sterility standards,' avoid using an expired tube. - Don't try mixing different ointments unless instructed by a doctor.
What Makes Aquaphor Suitable For Your Newborns' Delicate Skin?
Moisturizing Properties:
Newborn babies tend to have dry patches called 'dryness peak,' which manifest due to sudden temperature changes after birth or parental instinctively avoiding washing their baby too soon after birth (which isn't advisable!) Aquaphor has high moisturizing properties that can help to restore the baby's skin moisture and prevent these patches from appearing.
Barrier protection:
Babies have a more delicate epidermis than adults, making it easier for pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi to penetrate their skin. A thin layer of aquaphor creates a barrier between your babies' diaper area (for instance) where urine might irritate the already sensitive and possibly broken or cracked area.
When Is It Safe To Use And How Often Should I Apply Aquaphor?
You can apply aquaphor as soon as you notice any signs that require immediate attention on your baby's skin surface. For example: - Dryness - Eczema Rashes - Cracked Lips
However, resist applying too much too often since under normal conditions, newborns are born with enough sebaceous glands producing natural oils inactive amounts sufficient for keeping their skin soft(Please see dryness peak as an exception). Overusing skincare products may cause bacterial growth in areas such as neck folds which can clog pores leading to tiny red bumps called Milia.
A simple way to tell whether you're using too much lotion/oil/cream is when you find yellowish grit-like bumps on their forehead occasionally seen around the cheeks or chin though harmless resolve by themselves after some time (not advised to pop them).
Additionally, - Cleanse regularly through bathing.. Healthy hygiene Routine helps kickstart good habits and keeps your Baby healthy.
Tip: Concerning application frequency(approximately 2 times daily), if unsure consult with pediatricians/dermatologists while staying true parenting instincts - trying alternative measures allowed in-between taking healthcare professional's advice firmly.
Are There Any Risks In Using Too Much Or Applying It Incorrectly?
It's possible but unlikely since it takes an excessive amount of applied ointment over prolonged use to cause the adverse effects below: - Bacterial growth in any warm creasing areas caused by aquaphor's occlusive nature. -Bruising (if applied with a robust force),redness A similar scenario presents if you use it directly after newborn circumcisions' procedure since this might slow down/impair healing.
However, some situations require not using it including: - Burns - Deep cuts or wounds
This limits its penetration into the cut since it tends to obstruct air outflow that helps heal fresh scars faster.
How Long Can I Store An Opened Tube Of Aquaphor?
The American Academy of Dermatology advises storing an opened tube of aquaphor for up to 3 years. However, always check for signs such as foul smell and unusual texture—dispose of tubes left open/unattended over a prolonged period(especially when contents appear oily).
It's also essential verifying storage conditions. The ideal location is probably away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as stovetops, microwaves, radiators(to mention but only!)
| Keep your Baby clothing clean – Cotton clothing acts like maxi pads due to its highly absorbent properties | Chemical residues found in diaper detergents can alter your baby's delicate PH levels causing irritation |
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Do remember,
Regularly inspect the expiration date on each new purchase, avoiding bulk purchases unless frequently used within or close-to recommended time frames.
What Are Some Alternative Products To Consider If You're Not Sold Completely On Aquaphor?
Aquaphore doesn't guarantee results across all situation(sustainably).Therefore Here are alternative options :
Vitamin E Oil:
Applying vitamin E oil provides quick relief against eczema rashes, warts, and skin infections; It stimulates blood circulation which leads helpful nutrients arriving at locations needed.. As opposed to petroleum jelly or aquaphor, Vitamin E is a more natural way to keep your baby's skin healthy.
Calendula Ointment:
Calendula ointment promotes healing in mildly irritated or injured areas, making it ideal for treating minor cuts and scrapes on the baby's delicate skin. Additionally( if pestered by mean biting ,ouch!) apply some calendula cream for faster relief since it helps with bites other insects' venom-based inflammation....
In Conclusion
Aquaphor plays an essential role in one's health and beauty industry as perfumes manufactured…we rest our case.A word of advice: Though suitable fore newborns(especially in situations where pediatrician suggest using), carrying out thorough research before integrating new products that might come into contact with your newborn; minimize unwanted incidents from accidents caused by trial tests.Stay ahead of diaper rush cases.
After taking care!, we're positive you'll live through this phase fine laughing as such incidents become revealing at some point.
Good Luck With Your Future Parenting Endeavors and Godspeed!