6 Best Products for Baby’s Dry Skin

Whether you're a newborn baby or a full-grown adult, dry skin is something that’s pretty common in all of us. From rough little patches to upsetting eczema, we’ve found the kindest products for baby dry skin.

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Dry skin is a nuisance, and at some point in your life, you’re probably going to experience it. During their first year, a baby goes through a lot. Aside from the whole birthing thing (a pretty big life event), their skin is exposed to more and more over time.

Dry skin when they’re young can lead to sensitive skin when they’re older. But before you jump ahead to their teenage years, let’s take care of the trouble spots you’re faced with now.

Baby eczema vs dry skin

It goes without saying that babies inherit a lot from their parents—lucky things. From height to eye colour and even to weight, it’s all there in your mini-me. If you suffer from eczema (or did when you were young), your baby might end up feeling the effects too. Before you blame yourself and have a mild panic, keep calm.

Dry skin and eczema are super-common in babies and young children. With the right help, these conditions can clear up quite quickly.

Baby dry skin patches don’t always turn into eczema. If your little one is sporting some textured areas or red spots, they might just be down to changes in the atmosphere, washing detergent, or heating. Immediately after birth, you might notice how dry your baby’s skin is. That’s because the protective layer they leave the womb with starts to peel away. That 1 week old baby dry flaky skin is completely normal and will usually clear up over time by itself.

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As tempting as is it to dunk your baby in the bath every night, when they’re newborn, you might want to hold off on the warm water just a little bit. Baby dry skin on face and scalp can become more irritated if it constantly gets damp or if you use soap that’s too harsh. The weather can also make a child's skin react negatively. If you have baby dry skin winter issues, cut back on the baths and up the ante with some moisturising creams.

You’ll know when the dry skin has developed into eczema because they won’t stop scratching. From baby dry skin on face to flaky, rough patches around the elbows, on the arms, and behind the knees, eczema can crop up quickly. If that happens, it’s time to get the mittens out (they’ll prevent scratching) and pick up a product to help ease their discomfort.

How to treat baby acne and dry skin?

From dry skin 6 week old baby problems to baby acne (that’s right, spots aren’t just for teens and adults), your new addition can come with a whole heap of skin complaints. The best thing for baby dry skin is a targeted, gentle cream that helps take care of their fragile skin. We’ve found some of your favourites and listed them below for you to check out.

If your newborn has more blemishes than a moody teenager, it could come down to their hormones. Seriously—stop with the hormones! These hormones could actually have been passed down from Mum.

That’s right: if you’re a new mum who’s suffered with acne prone skin, or even rosacea and sensitive skin, those maternal hormones may still be circulating in the baby’s bloodstream after you’ve given birth. Big sigh. If you’re a new mum (and even if you’re not a mum) with sensitive skin, acne, and stretch marks, you might want to check out the all-natural Pai range.

From pimples on their foreheads to teeny blemishes around their eyes and nose, baby acne can begin at 2 or 3 weeks of age. Poor little things. The good news? It shouldn’t last long. Don’t use soap or lotion on the acne-affected area.

And definitely don’t pick or squeeze their spots—no Dr Pimple Popper round here! If the acne doesn’t clear up naturally, you could try applying a baby cream for dry skin. Or you could just leave it and let the air get to it. If you’re really concerned, always consult with a healthcare professional.

Baby has dry skin on face what to use?

If you're wondering what to use on a baby with dry skin on their face, it’s more about a complete routine than one individual product. Don’t make bath times too long, because the damp and water might aggravate the dry patches more. Keep overly fragranced bubble baths away, and pick up some gentle products designed especially for baby’s dry skin.

A 1 month old baby dry skin on face issue is more common that you might expect. These little sleep thieves often experience red patches and uneven texture as they acclimatise to Earth life. A fragrance-free, non-irritating, soothing moisturiser will help clear things up so your babe feels more comfortable.

If you’re really concerned about your baby’s dry skin, always take a trip to your healthcare advisor before applying products. If your baby’s dry skin has turned into a nasty eczema flare-up (think cracked, red, sore patches), do your research and see what the doctor says.

What is the best thing for a baby's dry skin?

You might be able to help soothe a baby dry skin rash with a specific oil for baby dry skin. You might even need to try several different products on your little one's skin before you find the thing that really works. We’ve picked out some of the best baby creams for dry skin and listed them below for you to check out.

Whether you’re struggling with eczema or your baby has really dry skin, fast-acting La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Baume will help. An artificial fragrance-free cream that’s also paraben-free, this gentle formula has been designed to replenish lipids in severely dry skin. Perfect for use on adults, children, and babies, this formula helps bring suffering skin back into balance. Effective for up to 24 hours, this blend absorbs into the skin and makes the skin look and feel more hydrated. Free of mineral oil, paraffin, and wax, this formula won’t irritate skin further. Plus, it’s completely fragrance-free and suitable for all ages, genders, and skin types.

  • If a baby has dry skin on top of head, this formula may well help. The Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract in the blend helps fortify the skin’s microbiome. Packed with Shea Butter and skin-healing Niacinamide, this blend can help break the itchy, dry skin cycle. To nourish the skin for up to 24 hours, you can smooth this cream all over your (and your baby’s) body. Infusing the skin with hydration and essential fatty acids, this formula helps build a protective barrier on the skin’s surface.

  • If you’re looking for a cream to rebalance moisture levels and help with those irritating baby dry skin patches legs, you might want to try La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Baume. The fast-acting formula instantly doses you with hydration, and the lipid-rich blend helps minimise the likelihood of blemishes and dryness. Perfect for dermatitis or eczema, this formula contains Thermal Spring Water, which provides antioxidant benefits. Niacinamide helps calm redness, and Glycerine helps lock some much needed moisture into the skin. Apply to the skin as and when you need.

If you have a 10 week old baby dry skin on face issue, you might want to introduce some super-nourishing, super-gentle products into their routine. Dr. Bronner’s Magic Balm - Baby Unscented is a gorgeous healing balm that works well on adults, children, and babies. Cruelty-free, artificial fragrance-free, and certified organic, this balm offers instant relief to skin that’s sore, tight, and very dry. When a baby is first exposed to the elements (wind and rain), you might notice their skin react. To help calm things down, this natural balm soothes skin that’s been affected by the wind. The balm may be used as a protectant and healing aid to help comfort dry skin.

  • Completely unscented, this rich formula contains no nasties, so their delicate skin stays as protected and soft as possible. Perfect for all ages to enjoy (even teens), Dr. Bronner Magic Balm - Baby Unscented contains no synthetic ingredients and is certified by the same National Organic Program that certifies food. A soothing blend of Beeswax, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Hemp Oil, and Organic Avocado Oil, this balm is one you’ll feel comfortable smothering on your tot’s trouble spots.

  • Made with a blend of non-GMO, Fair Trade ingredients, Dr. Bronner Magic Balm - Baby Unscented is never tested on animals and won’t harm the environment. Sustainably packaged, this balm smooths onto dry skin without tugging and leaves their skin feeling nourished and cared for. Easy to travel with, the lightweight tin won’t weigh down that nappy bag either. You don’t need to use a lot to see results. Gently soothe the balm over the problem area and reapply as often as you need. Use this anywhere on the body to help ease dry and flaking skin.

Eczema and dry skin can pop up on your skin at any time. Did you know that stress can cause eczema too? If you’re looking for a cream to help soothe your skin complaints and leave you feeling smoother, you might want to try La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 Balm. Artificial fragrance-free and paraben-free, this rich, restorative balm works for even very sensitive skin types. Whether you’re suffering with eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis, this balm will help your skin feel a bit better. The carefully crafted blend can be enjoyed by all ages–—even babies.

  • While you might be tempted to just leave your troubled, dry skin alone, a rich, gentle moisturiser will help bring things back into balance. Gentle enough for even 1 month old baby dry skin on face issues, this formula won’t irritate further or leave the skin feeling sticky and uncomfortable. Did you know that your skin is the largest organ of your body? It’s also one of the most exposed. That’s why it’s important to take care of it by adding lost moisture back. Made for use all over the body, this balm sinks into the skin quickly.

  • You can use La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+ Balm as often as you need on your or your baby’s skin. Apply a generous layer where the skin is most sensitive, and let the air get to it before you help a little one get dressed. With a non-greasy texture, the balm contains Madecassoside, which helps speed up the skin’s recovery. The 5% Panthenol in the formula soothes any dryness. And the antibacterial agents in the balm keeps everything protected. Suitable for the whole family to enjoy, this triple-acting blend sinks into the skin quickly so you can carry on with your day.

If your baby has very sensitive, dry skin, you’ll want to make bath time as gentle as possible. Weleda Calendula Body Lotion is certified organic, cruelty-free, and sulphate-free, making it a great choice for baby and a solid pick for anyone struggling with sensitive skin. Too many baths might dry your baby’s skin out. Add this milky formula to their skin after the bath to ensure they feel the nourishing benefits. Ideal for sensitive, dehydrated, and dry skin types, this mild lotion is really for everyone.

  • Made with 100% natural and 99% organic ingredients, this milky skin treat leaves their skin feeling soothed and hydrated. If they’re recovering from eczema or have some dry, patchy skin, adding this formula to their skin will help calm everything down. Rather than pour loads of lotions and potions onto your baby's delicate skin, keep things simple with this super moisturiser. The organic ingredients help soothe the skin, so hopefully, there’ll be fewer tears before bed!

  • You don’t need to use a lot of Weleda Calendula Body Lotion on their skin to start noticing the hydrating benefits. Made with a loving blend of Chamomile and Organic Calendula, this lotion helps keep the skin protected. Gently rub the formula into their skin to leave them feeling soft, soothed, and supple. Very (very) lightly scented, this formula has a milky texture that sinks in quickly, so you can get them dressed fast. It also works well around the delicate nappy area. You can cleanse their skin with the formula on a cotton pad, or you can simply apply it to their skin as a moisturiser. It’s gentle enough to do both jobs.

Sensitive, dry skin can be really tricky to manage. You don’t always know when it’s going to flare up! If you or your baby has sensitive, dry skin, you want to know you’re using the most gentle, effective products possible. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Syndet AP+ Body Wash Cream works to neutralise the effects of hard water and also soothes very dry and irritated skin. From harsh weather conditions to clothes that have been washed in chemical detergents, anything can cause a reaction in sensitive skin at any time. When you wash your skin with this gentle but effective body cream, you’ll help calm any irritation, so skin feels softer and smoother.

  • A daily cleanser that gently washes away impurities, this paraben-free, artificial fragrance-free cleanser takes the gentlest approach to skincare. With only a few ingredients included in the formula, there isn’t a lot for sensitive skin to react to. Niacinamide cares for your hands and body by strengthening a weakened skin barrier, minimising irritation, and improving a blotchy skin tone. The Thermal Spring Water in the blend naturally soothes the skin. If you have skin that’s prone to allergies, or atopy-prone skin, you’ll love the way this cleanser feels. Rather than using a soap that might cause red patches to worsen, use this nourishing cleanser to offer your skin a sense of relief.

  • La Roche-Posay Lipikar Syndet AP+ Body Wash Cream won’t dry out sensitive skin. Soap-free and fragrance-free, this creamy wash can be enjoyed by all ages and genders. This cleanser is so mild and soothing, you can even apply it to a newborn's skin. Working to help reduce severe dryness, the wash makes your skin feel softer as soon as you’ve cleansed with it. Pump a small amount between your palms, mix with water, and apply to your or your baby’s skin to cleanse. Rinse, pat the skin dry with a clean cotton cloth, and you’re good to go.

Help their skin stay protected and nourished with this gentle oil.
Help their skin stay protected and nourished with this gentle oil.

Taking care of your baby’s skin can feel confusing. With so many people telling you what you should and shouldn’t be using, it’s hard to know what’s best. This feeling only gets more intense if they have sensitive skin. When trying to soothe a baby’s skin, it’s good to remember that you might not get it exactly right the first time. You might need to try a few products before you find one that suits their skin best. Weleda Calendula Baby Oil - Fragrance Free is a reliable, 100% organic, artificial fragrance-free oil. Perfect for a quick after-bath massage (if the baby will let you), the blend helps you keep dry skin moisturised without worry about harmful ingredients.

  • Cruelty-free, sulphate-free, completely vegan … You’ll feel pretty confident applying this oil to your baby’s skin. Whether they’re struggling with dry patches or full-blown eczema, it’s always worth consulting a healthcare professional before you apply something new to their delicate skin. Dermatologically tested and made using only organic ingredients, this oil is suitable for red, very sensitive skin. Sesame Seed Oil and Calendula Extract provide a layer of protection against minor irritations.

  • You can apply Weleda Calendula Baby Oil - Fragrance Free directly to your baby’s skin, or you could pour a capful or two into the bath. The perfect formula to help you massage their little limbs, this oil also promotes the healing and softening of frustrating cradle cap. Everyone can enjoy this soothing, gentle oil—even adults! The super-light formula melts into the skin quickly and keeps you hydrated and soft as your day wears on. If you’re applying with your hands, warm the oil up first to help it smooth over the skin easily.





Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.




Need a recap? Here's the 6 Best Products for Baby's Dry Skin

Watching your baby struggle with dry skin can be upsetting. But it doesn't have to be with a soothing product designed especially for very dry, sensitive skin.


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