Is baby cream the right choice for your skin?
Choose by the formula and how your skin responds, not by the age group on the packaging, which is not an admission policy. Moisturizers sometimes take a few attempts to get right. Creams sit between lotions and ointments in oil content: lotions are lighter but can hold moisture less effectively, while ointments are greasier and better at keeping moisture in very dry skin.1
If your skin is sensitive or you have contact dermatitis, an itchy reaction to an irritant or allergen, perfume in a moisturizer can cause irritation. Do not assume a Johnson baby cream is fragrance free without checking its label. For a child with eczema, choose fragrance free rather than unscented products: unscented products can contain fragrance that has been masked. A reaction can appear hours or days after use.12
How should you apply it?
- 1After a bath or shower, gently pat your skin dry, leaving it slightly moist.
- 2Apply the cream immediately after drying rather than waiting until your skin feels tight.
- 3Smooth the cream gently over your skin in the direction your hair grows instead of rubbing vigorously.
- 4Reapply when your skin feels dry or tight. General guidance for very dry skin is to use a moisturizer 2 to 4 times daily.
Creams are often practical during the day because they absorb quickly and are less greasy than ointments. For a child with eczema, apply moisturizer at least twice daily to help prevent dryness and cracking. A thick cream or ointment is a suitable starting point when choosing that child's moisturizer.34
Can you use it on your face?
Moisturizers can be used on the face, but some cause facial rashes that aggravate acne or blocked and inflamed hair follicles. If you are acne prone, do not treat a baby label as a promise that the cream will avoid breakouts. You can use different moisturizers on your face and body; one tub does not need responsibility for every square inch, especially with such a junior job title.13
When should you stop using it?
Stop using the cream if your skin reacts, and ask a pharmacist about an alternative. Speak to a GP, nurse or pharmacist about persistent burning, stinging, facial rashes or inflamed follicles. Severe dry skin conditions need medical advice rather than repeated moisturizer changes.13
If you use a steroid cream or another prescribed skin treatment, leave 20 to 30 minutes between that treatment and your moisturizer. Ask your doctor which to apply first so you do not dilute the treatment or spread it onto unaffected skin.3
