Water alone or appropriate liquid cleansers can be used that will not impair skin maturation. After birth, the diaper area should be kept dry. It is appropriate to cleanse this area gently with cotton balls or squares with water or by using baby wipes. Moisturizers can be used to maintain skin barrier function.
One may add a small amount of mineral (baby) oil to the bath. Any product that is left on the skin (i.e. moisturizer) should have a pH of approximately 5.5 and the ingredients should have undergone extensive safety testing. Avoid using products with harsh surfactants, such as sodium lauryl sulfate.
Posted in General Dermatology, Skin Care