Newborn Dry Skin: Soothe Your Little One's Sensitive Skin This Dry Season

If you've noticed your newborn's skin is looking a little flaky, rough, or dry, rest assured that you’re not alone. Dry skin is very common for babies, especially in the first few weeks after birth. While it can be concerning to see your little one’s delicate skin looking anything less than soft, squishy and perfect, in most cases, dry skin is completely normal and only temporary.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the causes of infant dry skin, as well as other common symptoms like newborn dry scalp. We’ll also share gentle, practical tips you can use at home to help soothe and protect your baby's skin, keeping it soft, comfortable, and healthy. Whether you’re a first-time parent or just looking for reassurance, you’re in the right place.


Is Newborn Dry Skin Normal?

It’s very common for newborns to experience dry skin as they adjust from the moisture of the womb to the dry air of the outside world. When babies are in utero, their skin has a protective coating called vernix caseosa, commonly referred to as vernix. While some babies are born with remnants of vernix on their skin, it usually absorbs in the first few days after birth, once the skin begins to adjust to its new environment. In most cases, any dryness or flakiness will be temporary, and your baby’s skin will become softer and hydrated on its own.


Spotting the Signs: Identifying Dry Skin in Your Newborn

Noticing skin changes in your baby can be concerning, but you can take comfort in the fact that identifying dryness is no cause for alarm. Common symptoms of infant dry skin include:

  • Flaky skin – This can look like the skin is shedding or peeling and is common in areas like the feet, hands and ankles.

  • Rough patches – Skin may feel dry and textured to the touch. Rough patches can appear anywhere, including the chest, back and arms.

  • Cracked skin – If dryness is severe, cracked skin may occur in areas where the skin is thinner, such as the wrists, ankles, hands, feet, or around the joints. These areas also tend to experience more movement and friction, making them prone to irritation and splitting when dry. If the cracks you’re seeing are more scale-like in appearance and located on the scalp, your baby may have cradle crap (more on that below).

  • Mild redness – Mild redness may appear alongside dry skin and is more common in areas frequently exposed, like the legs, tummy and arms. Redness can also appear on the face, particularly if your baby is experiencing irritation and friction from feeding.


Newborn Dry Scalp: Cradle Cap or Just Dry Skin?

Dry skin can appear anywhere, including the scalp. However, cradle cap is also very common in newborns, so it’s important to recognise the difference between the two. Newborn dry scalp will appear as flaky, dry skin (similar to dandruff) without redness or inflammation. In contrast, cradle cap will appear as greasy yellow or brown scales, sometimes accompanied by redness. You can manage newborn dry scalp at home by using gentle, moisturising products when bathing your newborn, followed by a soft brush to gently remove any loose flakes and a moisturising lotion to soothe dryness. Similar care can be taken when managing cradle cap, but do not pick or lift the scales; they usually don’t bother babies and will often resolve on their own. If the cradle cap is persistent, spreads beyond the scalp, looks sore, or appears to be causing discomfort, seek medical advice. In some cases, medical shampoo or cream may be prescribed.


The Culprits Behind Infant Dry Skin: Understanding the Causes

Although newborn dry skin is a very common part of a baby’s transition from the womb to the outside world, some other causes can contribute to or exacerbate the condition. These include:

  • Weather (cold, dry air) – Dress your baby in warm yet breathable layers and avoid exposing them to the cold or wind for long periods.

  • Harsh soaps and detergents – Look for products that are pH-balanced, dermatologist-tested and formulated specifically for delicate newborn skin.

  • Over-bathing – Too many baths can remove natural oils from the skin. Limit baths to 2-3 times a week, unless soiled.

  • Other skin conditions – Conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis) can cause chronic dry, sensitive skin. If you suspect eczema, reach out to your medical professional. 

  • Genetics – Babies with a family history of dry skin, eczema, or other skin conditions are more prone to dryness.


The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Moisturiser for Your Newborn

A gentle moisturiser that’s suitable for use on delicate infant skin should be on everyone’s newborn checklist. When treating infant dry skin, it’s important to choose a formula that supports your baby’s skin barrier while it’s still developing. Here are some labels that indicate a product has been formulated to minimise common irritants and allergens:

  • Hypoallergenic

  • Fragrance-free

  • Paraben-free

  • Dermatologist-tested


Ingredients-wise, look for:

  • Emollients – Emollients like shea butter and cocoa butter form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, helping lock in moisture and prevent dryness. 

  • Humectants – Humectants draw moisture into the skin to keep it smooth and hydrated. Hyaluronic acid and glycerin are popular choices for newborn moisturiser, as they’re non-irritating.

  • Occlusives – Occlusives like coconut oil and beeswax help to prevent water loss while supporting skin healing and comfort.


Need more guidance? Here are some top recommendations to help you find the best moisturiser for newborn skin.

  1. Aveeno Baby Soothing Relief Moisture Cream – Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and made with natural colloidal oatmeal and rich emollients to soothe infant dry skin.

  2. Cetaphil Baby Daily Lotion with Shea Butter – A dermatologist-tested formula with shea butter and glycerin.

  3. CeraVe Baby Moisturising Cream – Formulated with three essential ceramides to support the skin's moisture barrier, with hyaluronic acid and glycerin.

  4. Dermeze Moisturising Cream - Dermatologist-tested, pH-balanced and suitable for use on the face.

  5. GAIA Natural Baby Moisturiser - Made with 98% natural origin ingredients, including organic aloe vera and organic calendula, with chamomile and cacao butter.

  6. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lait Body Milk - A hydrating body emollient lotion suitable for the whole family. Contains shea butter to restore softness and suppleness to the skin.