It’s a chilly winter evening, and you’ve just brought your baby back to the cozy warmth of their nursery after a bath. As you gently dry their soft skin, you notice it feels a little rougher than usual—dry patches starting to appear here and there. Of course, it’s winter. The cold air outside and the dry heat indoors can sap moisture from even the most delicate skin, leaving it vulnerable to irritation and discomfort.

For babies, whose skin is thinner and more sensitive than adults, winter poses unique challenges. Without proper care, their skin can become dry, itchy, or even develop rashes. That’s why a thoughtful winter skincare routine is so important—not just to prevent dryness but also to protect and nourish your baby’s delicate skin barrier.

Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you covered. From the best moisturizers to expert tips on preventing common winter skin issues, this blog has everything you need to keep your baby’s skin soft, smooth, and healthy all season long.

How’s a baby’s skin different from adult skin?

According to a 2012 study by Dermatology Research and Practice, “Infant skin is different from adult in structure, function, and composition. As infant skin continues to mature through the first years of life, it is important that skin care products (e.g., cleansers and emollients) are formulated appropriately. Ideally, products that are used on infants should not interfere with skin surface pH or perturb the skin barrier.”

“Maintenance of the skin barrier is essential for survival. This is especially true for neonates and infants because their skin differs from mature adult skin in structure, function, and composition and is particularly susceptible to infection.

What makes a baby’s skin more vulnerable in winter?

Winter can be tough on anyone’s skin, but for babies, the effects are especially pronounced due to their unique skin physiology. 

According to Dermatologist Hannah Kopelman, DO, chief medical officer for DermOnDemand, “In my practice, I often see parents bringing in their babies with dry, chapped skin or flare-ups of eczema during the winter months. This happens because cold air outside and low humidity indoors strip the skin of its natural oils.

Let’s break down why their skin needs extra care during the colder months:

Thinner epidermis and reduced oil production

A baby’s epidermis—the outermost layer of the skin—is about 20-30% thinner than that of an adult. This means it offers less protection against environmental aggressors like cold winds and dry indoor air. Additionally, a baby’s skin produces less sebum (natural oil), which is critical for maintaining hydration and forming a protective barrier. Without adequate oil production, their skin becomes more prone to dryness and irritation in winter.

Increased Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL)

Studies have shown that babies experience higher rates of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), especially in cold and dry weather conditions.

TEWL refers to the natural process by which water evaporates from the skin’s surface. During winter, this loss is exacerbated by low humidity levels and indoor heating, leading to dehydration of the skin. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine highlighted that infants are more susceptible to environmental changes in humidity and temperature, making their skin vulnerable to drying out quickly.

How to tell if your baby’s skin barrier is healthy

The skin barrier is the body’s first line of defense against irritants, allergens, and water loss. In babies, this barrier is still developing, making it less effective at retaining moisture and more prone to disruption.

She further says “If I see signs of infection, like swelling or oozing, I know the barrier needs immediate attention. I always tell parents to monitor for these signs and come in if they’re unsure—early intervention is key to preventing worsening symptoms,” says Dr. Kopelman.

How can you create a daily winter skin care routine?

During the winter, keeping your baby’s skin healthy is more important than ever. Simple steps like regular cleansing and moisturizing can make a big difference.

A study on babies’ skin states that it’s important to clean your baby’s skin properly. This helps get rid of things that can cause irritation, like saliva, urine, dirt, and germs.

If these stay on the skin too long, especially in areas like the diaper region, they can lead to discomfort, irritation, or even infections. Just using water during bath time may not be enough, though. Sometimes, you’ll need a gentle cleanser to make sure your baby’s skin is really clean.

You might also want to use a moisturizer after bathing. Applying emollients (like lotions or creams) can help keep your baby’s skin from losing too much moisture, especially in the dry winter air. These moisturizers can also help improve your baby’s skin and even protect against skin issues. For very premature babies, regular moisturizing has even been shown to help their skin and health.

Here’s how you can make bath time and moisturizing a part of your winter skincare strategy.

Bathing tips

Bathing is essential, but overdoing it in winter can strip your baby’s skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. To keep their skin nourished:

• Use lukewarm water: Avoid water that’s too hot, as it can dehydrate the skin. Keep the bath comfortably warm and short—ideally, no longer than 5-10 minutes.
• Opt for gentle cleansers: Harsh soaps can upset your baby’s skin’s natural pH balance, leaving it dry and irritated. Choose a fragrance-free, pH-balanced cleanser designed for sensitive baby skin. These help cleanse without causing harm to their delicate barrier.

Moisturizing

Moisturizing is the cornerstone of any winter skin care routine. Right after a bath, when your baby’s skin is still slightly damp, apply a rich emollient to lock in moisture and protect the skin.

By following these simple steps, you’ll create a protective layer against winter’s drying effects, keeping your baby’s skin soft and healthy every day.

What ingredients should parents look for (or avoid) in baby moisturizers during winter?

“When parents ask me for recommendations, I suggest moisturizers containing ceramides, glycerin, or colloidal oatmeal,” says Dr. Kopelman, “These ingredients are fantastic for hydrating and repairing a baby’s delicate skin barrier. I always caution against products with fragrances or dyes, which can irritate the skin, and recommend they stick to hypoallergenic options. For babies with eczema, I recommend emollients specifically designed for eczema-prone skin to help reduce flare-ups.”

How can you protect your baby’s skin from the environment?

Winter weather isn’t just about the chill—it also brings harsh winds and UV exposure that can take a toll on your baby’s delicate skin. Here’s how to protect them from these environmental stressors.

Cold and wind protection

When you step outdoors in winter, your baby’s cheeks, nose, and lips are often exposed to biting winds and cold air. These can strip away moisture and cause dryness or chapping. That’s where barrier creams come to the rescue!

What do barrier creams do? They form a protective shield on your baby’s skin, locking in moisture and preventing damage from the elements. Look for creams with gentle, hydrating ingredients like petroleum jelly or lanolin. Apply a thin layer to exposed areas before heading outside to keep your baby’s skin soft and shielded.

Sun Protection

Do babies need sunscreen in winter, and if so, what SPF is ideal?

When should you consult a doctor about your baby’s skin?

While most winter skin issues can be managed with a good care routine, there are times when a doctor’s guidance is essential. Knowing what signs to watch for can help you address potential problems early.

“I always encourage parents to reach out if they’re unsure about their baby’s skin,” says Dr. Kopelman, “Persistent dryness, redness, or itching that doesn’t improve with regular moisturizing, can be signs of a more serious issue, like eczema or a skin infection. If they notice any signs of infection, like warmth, swelling, or pus, I advise seeking care right away. It’s always better to address these concerns early before they escalate.”

Keep an eye on your baby’s skin for any of the following:

• Persistent dryness: If your baby’s skin remains flaky or rough despite moisturizing, it could signal a more serious issue.
• Redness or swelling: These may indicate irritation, an allergic reaction, or even an infection.
• Cracks or bleeding: Deeply chapped areas that crack or bleed can compromise the skin barrier, increasing the risk of infection.
• Itchy patches or rashes: These could be signs of eczema or another underlying condition, especially if they’re causing discomfort or disrupting your baby’s sleep.

Conclusion

With a little extra care, you can keep your baby’s skin healthy and happy all winter long. By following a simple routine—gentle cleansing, moisturizing, layering clothes, and protecting from the cold and sun—you’ll help prevent dryness and irritation.

Keeping your baby’s skin nourished and shielded will ensure they stay cozy and comfortable, letting you enjoy the season together without worry. A little extra attention goes a long way in keeping your baby’s skin soft and protected all season.