Babies and toddlers have delicate, thin skin and fine hair that require gentle care. Everyday habits that adults take for granted could dry out or irritate the young ones’ skin and scalp. Both Ayurvedic experts and dermatologists emphasise the importance of gentle routines, such as avoiding over-bathing or using harsh products, and instead using natural oils to nourish the skin. Below, we explain five common everyday habits that unknowingly harm babies’ skin and hair, and why it is best to avoid them.

Habit 1: Over-Bathing or Using Hot Water

Bathing too often or with very hot water strips the baby’s natural oils from the skin. Pediatricians recommend only 2–3 baths per week for most infants; more frequent baths can dry out their delicate skin. Likewise, bathing with extreme water temperature should be avoided; the water should feel warm (not hot) on your wrist. Hot water and excessive scrubbing can impair the skin’s moisture barrier.

The same is the case for hair: washing your baby’s hair every day can strip away natural oils, which leads to dryness and irritation, so limit shampooing to a few times weekly. Washing with lukewarm water and very gentle cleansers (preferably soap-free, pH-balanced) helps preserve the scalp’s natural moisture balance and keep hair soft and healthy.

Habit 2: Skipping Moisturizer and Oil Massage

After a bath, leaving the baby’s skin unmoisturized causes the water to evaporate and leads to dryness. Pediatric dermatology guidelines stress moisturizing immediately after patting dry to “lock in moisture” and protect the skin barrier. In Ayurvedic tradition, a daily baby oil massage (Shishu Abhyanga) is a key to healthy skin. Regular gentle massage with warm, natural oils hydrates and nourishes the baby’s skin, relieving any dryness. It also improves circulation and helps the nervous system relax. Skipping this ritual could leave skin rough or flaky. As Ayurvedic doctors recommend, using a mild baby lotion or oil (for example, one with aloe, neem, or sesame) after bathing keeps baby’s skin supple and prevents chapping.

Habit 3: Using Harsh, Scented Products or Irritating Fabrics

Most commonly available soaps, shampoos, and fabrics contain chemicals or fragrances that are too harsh for baby skin. In fact, pediatric dermatologists warn that soaps, bubble baths, shampoos, detergents, and even scented baby wipes can trigger irritation or eczema. The perfumes and sulfates present in adult products disrupt the baby’s skin barrier and cause dryness or rashes. Similarly, washing baby clothes in regular detergents or using fabric softeners can leave allergens on clothes. To protect the baby’s sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cleansers and wash all new clothes in a gentle, dye-free detergent. Dress babies in soft, breathable fabrics (cotton) rather than itchy wool or synthetic fabrics.

Habit 4: Exposing Baby to Sun and Harsh Environments

A baby’s skin is thinner and burns or loses moisture quickly in harsh environments. Direct sun exposure can cause sunburn. Experts advise keeping babies under 6 months in the shade and covered with lightweight clothing, and using baby-safe sunscreen as required. Likewise, extreme temperatures and dry air can flake and inflame baby skin. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that very hot or cold weather, low humidity, and pollutants are common eczema triggers in infants.

Smoke, wind or dry indoor heat will dry out the skin quickly. It’s best to keep a baby’s environment mild and well-humidified. When outdoors, keep the baby in shade and wear a hat for protection (and use a gentle baby sunscreen on exposed skin) to help prevent heat-related damage and moisture loss. In very dry or cold weather, cover the baby’s face and use a gentle barrier cream on the cheeks to lock in hydration.

Habit 5: Improper Hair Care (Overwashing or Wrong Shampoo)

Babies have very sensitive scalps. Washing or shampooing too often in a week (or using adult shampoos) can harm hair health. As noted above, even a baby’s hair only needs washing about 2-3 times a week. Shampooing daily, especially with strong cleansers, strips the scalp of natural oils that keep hair smooth. Also, avoid shampoos with a high pH level or harsh surfactants as they can irritate the scalp. Always use a tear-free baby shampoo formulated to be gentle. Look for one enriched with natural oils (like coconut or almond) and mild botanicals since these help clean without drying and can even prevent flaky cradle-cap.

When shampooing, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, and gently massage the scalp with your fingertips (never your nails). Softly comb or brush hair after washing, and consider a small drop of baby oil to moisturise dry ends. Remember, using excessive force (scrubbing, tight ponytails or hats) or neglect (leaving crusty cradle cap untreated) can all harm hair growth, so adopt a gentle, nourishing routine.

Summary: Gentle Care, Healthier Skin

Think gentle and simple, avoid anything that violently strips or chafes the skin/scalp. By reducing bath frequency, using lukewarm water, moisturising often, and favouring mild natural products, you support both skin and hair health. Ayurvedic wisdom (like regular oil massage) complements modern dermatology (like ceramide-rich lotions) in keeping your baby’s skin soft and protected.