Keep your kid’s skin soft and supple: Here’s how

We rarely worry about our complexion before we are middle aged. That is exactly why we get those problems – because we have never tried to pre-empt them. Our skin is the largest organ of the body. Teach your child these tips to maintain a healthy complexion now, and they will be thankful to you tomorrow.  

Find the right products 
There are numerous soaps, creams, lotions, and other skin-care products available readily, including kid and teenage specials. To find the right product, first check your kid’s skin type. Is it dry, oily, combination? Are they prone to rashes or pimples? While buying, check the ingredient and avoid chemicals like sulphates and parabens. For specific skin problems, consult a dermatologist before buying anything. If you are using a new product, first test it on the skin of your child’s arm before applying on the face.   

Choose a mild soap 
Bar soaps can be incredibly drying, and typical moisturises added soaps will give kids pimples. Choose a mild soap and ensure they use it every time they get dirty. Bathing daily is important, especially in our climate. Do not scrub their skin too hard. Also, bath water temperature for kids should be body temperature, neither hot nor cold.   

Prevent dryness and oiliness 
Kids start developing extra oily skin usually from mid-teens. Till then, it’s important to keep their skin hydrated. Heel cracks, dry patches near the mouth extra dry knees and elbows are some common problems for most active kids. Use petroleum jelly for lips and elbows, and moisturisers for knees. For winter heel cracks, apply heel cream on cleaned and washed feet at night, cover with socks and take off the socks in the morning. To combat oiliness, make sure they clean their skin properly. Do not oil their hair too much and keep it dandruff free, as these cause oily facial skin.   

Shield your child from chlorine burns 
In the summer months, chlorine or salt water may cause the skin to dry or turn darker, especially if your child loves spending time in the swimming pool. Make sure she has a light shower before entering the pool and a full bath followed by application of light moisturises after they come out.