Skin Care Stages for Growing Children
Skin is a window into the body and mirrors the body’s environment.
Think about it. Skin is the first thing that is evaluated by healthcare providers (and has been for thousands of years all over the world). That’s because its appearance is a good indicator of how you are doing. Smooth, even-toned skin means the body is generally okay. Red, itchy, dry and bumpy skin means that something isn’t quite right.
Skin is more than skin deep!
Skin functions on three levels: to protect, nourish and purify the body. It is designed to block most of the things in life and the environment that can harm, and actively moves waste out of our bodies. At the same time, skin absorbs – like a sponge – healthy nutrients and moisture. Importantly, the skin is home to a variety of cells that are responsible for the body’s immunity. This is why choosing honest skin care products is so important. Keeping skin healthy works to keep your body healthy too!
What about baby skin?
Parents need to understand that the skin of young children is different, and requires special care. As little ones grow, their skin care needs change. This is why its so important to choose skin care that honestly protects and nourishes. Through our years of research, we’ve created a quick guide to how skin develops as your child grows. We call it Baby Skin Stages™:
Newborns & Preemies – The skin is very thin and, much like baby, isn’t fully developed. Right now, baby is particularly vulnerable to the surroundings, such as environmental toxins from personal care products, food, clothing and cleaning supplies. Try to: limit contact with synthetic chemicals and use all-natural skin care products that help build skin strength and thickness.
Infants & Toddlers – The skin function develops and the surface thickens, however it’s not yet producing enough melanin, sweat or natural oils to maintain necessary moisture and act as the body’s first line of defense. Baby’s growing independence results in more exposure to the elements and germs. Try to: keep skin hydrated and protected with moisturizers and sunscreen and start teaching personal care habits like proper hand washing.
Children Five & Under – Now your child’s skin is beginning to take on its full duties. This is good because many children of this age spend time in group-care settings, increasing contact with bacteria and viruses. Bath-time becomes a “teachable moment” for kids to learn how to take care of some of their own grooming. Try to: Create personal care routines for children that include care for the environment – limiting the use of resources like water, paper and energy and using products that reduce exposure to chemicals.
Episencial sees bath time as a chance for creative play that teaches how to have healthy skin for a healthy body and planet!
