How Should I Care for My Child's Skin?
Bathing
When your child bathes, the water should be comfortably warm but not hot. Use a gentle, hypoallergenic soap and be sure that your child’s skin is thoroughly rinsed. You or your child should pat their skin dry and not rub it.
Use gentle shampoos and conditioners. I recommend the use of organic body products. Products which are designed for babies are excellent choices even as your child grows older as they often contain the least toxic chemical compounds.
Topical Remedies and Protection
Discourage your child from itching or picking at lesions, use a natural, chemical free moisturizer on your child’s skin and provide protection against sun damage.
I like to add a few drops of apricot kernel, canola, olive, or sesame oil to the tub to create a soothing bath for psoriasis. You can massage the oil into your child’s scalp and skin prior to giving him or her a shower. Be careful not to use too much or the tub or shower floor will get slippery, and do not use olive or sesame oil if your child has acne.
Apricot kernel oil is an excellent choice as it is rich in nutrients and non-irritating to sensitive skin. It is expensive and has a short shelf life, so try blending it half and half with canola or olive oil.
If you know how to make herbal oils, make some chickweed, plantain, or calendula oil to use as a moisturizer or topical remedy. You can add a couple of drops of organic lavender essential oil to your child’s bath. This is especially helpful at bedtime as lavender is soothing and relaxing.
You can easily make a topical remedy for lesions. Simply combine two tablespoons of borage or evening primrose seed oil with six drops of organic lavender essential oil. Apply the blend to your child’s lesions two to four times daily.
The blend reduces itchiness and scaling; fights secondary infections, lubricates, and relieves inflammation and cracking of skin. Be sure to label your healing oil and keep it out of reach of children.
By implementing these strategies, your child’s skin will improve. He or she will be healthier, more comfortable, and you will both enjoy life more.
