Does my kid need a bath?

Choosing soap and shampoo

With so many options on the store shelves, deciding on the right soap and shampoo for your child may not seem like an easy choice.

As kids get older and sometimes struggle with acne, an anti-bacterial soap may be beneficial in consultation with their dermatologist. But generally speaking, avoiding cleansers with ingredients like parabens and sulfates will prevent the skin from drying out and having other irritations. Also, some ‘natural’ soaps are gentler and don’t strip away your skin’s natural oils and protective barrier.

“But research is showing that the soap or cleanser itself may not be the most important part of bathing. The friction provided by the water and gentle scrubbing tends to be the most effective way to remove dirt, grime, excess oils and bacteria.”

Regarding shampoos, parents should choose unscented options with a neutral PH that won’t damage the hair or irritate the scalp and eyes.

“For example, don’t just buy a baby shampoo because it’s marketed as ‘no-tears,’” Dr. Stapel said. “Some of them are scented with non-neutral PH, so be sure to read the label.”

Don’t forget to moisturize!

After rinsing the child and drying them off, applying a moisturizer is important for locking moisture within the skin.

“Petroleum jelly-based and water-based emollients and lotions are both good choices for maintaining the skin’s moisture level,” Dr. Stapel said. “But during the winter months when the air is drier, using moisturizers with petroleum jelly is more effective. Also, applying a moisturizer right after a bath or shower has the added benefit of locking in moisture the skin absorbed while bathing.”