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Does your baby have a habit of rubbing their face aggressively? It can be a bit concerning, especially if it’s something they do too often. Facial rubbing is a common behavior among babies, and a variety of reasons can cause it.
One of the most common reasons is that they are trying to relieve discomfort or pain in the area. Babies may also rub their faces when tired or bored to self-soothe. On the other hand, some babies simply enjoy the sensation of rubbing against something soft like fabric or skin.
Babies’ behavior somethings can seem a bit strange and puzzling; for instance, when they moan while eating, or hump themselves to sleep, parents are forced to show concern about whether or not these behaviors are normal.
To your baby, exploring their face is a way of getting to know their world and themselves better. So even if it seems strange to you, it just indicates that your baby is happy and content. However, if your baby is rubbing their face excessively, taking a closer look at the situation is essential.
Check for any discomfort or pain in the area and ensure they do not feel too hot or cold. In this article, we’ll discuss the all possible causes of this behavior and some solutions to help your baby get some relief.
What Causes Facial Rubbing in Babies?
When your baby rubs their face, it is usually a sign that they are exploring their new environment and feeling secure in their own body. This is completely natural and normal behavior for babies, and you shouldn’t be worried about it.
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Your baby will rub their face for a few reasons. They may do it for comfort, as a way to self-soothe, or even just as an act of exploration. That said, the following are the reasons why babies rub their faces;
1. Teething
One of the most common causes of facial rubbing in babies is teething. As babies start to cut teeth, their gums become sore and swollen, and rubbing the face can temporarily relieve the discomfort.
2. Discomfort
Aggressive facial rubbing can also be a sign of discomfort caused by any number of issues, ranging from allergies to dry skin or skin irritation. Always check for any signs of discomfort or pain in the area and ensure they do not feel too hot or cold. If facial rubbing persists or becomes frequent and intense.
3. Self-Soothe
Another cause of facial rubbing in babies could be to help them self-soothe. Facial rubbing provides tactile feedback that can be calming and comforting, particularly when babies are feeling overwhelmed or understimulated.
This gentle action can help to ease feelings of overwhelm and under-stimulation by providing a calming and comforting effect. As such, facial rubbing can be seen as a natural and effective coping strategy for babies feeling devastated and wishing to relax.
What To Do When Baby Aggresively Rubs Face
You may probably get concerned or worried when rubbing your face becomes a constant behavior for your baby. Fear not, here are a few solutions you can adopt;
1. Provide A Distraction
One possible solution for aggressive facial rubbing in babies is to provide a soft, durable stuffed animal for them to hold and play with. This will help to distract them from their need to vigorously rub their face and give them something else to focus on.
Providing a tactile and comforting experience, babies can concentrate on exploring the sensory aspects of their new toy, thus alleviating the impulse to rub their faces aggressively.
This would help to soothe any discomfort or stress that may be prompting the baby’s need to rub their face in the first place. All in all, introducing a stuffed animal is an effective solution for calming down babies who are displaying signs of aggressive facial rubbing.
2. Use Calming Products
Investing in calming products specifically designed for babies can be helpful. These items often include soothing music, aromatherapy, and natural oils, creating a calming atmosphere that can soothe and help reduce the urge to rub their face.
Baby aggressively rubbing their face can be a sign of discomfort, such as pain due to teething, sensitivity to textures, or even allergies. Parents can help alleviate some of these discomforts by investing in calming products and providing a safe and calming environment for their babies.
3. Set A Positive Bedtime Routine
Developing a consistent bedtime routine can be beneficial in reducing the amount of stress and anxiety associated with aggressive facial rubbing in babies.
Reading stories before bed, singing lullabies, and providing warm baths – these are all activities that can help your baby relax and wind down before a good night’s sleep which can help reduce their urge to rub their face aggressively during the day.
When Should I Be Concerned About Baby Rubbing Face
Face rubbing is usually completely normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, if your baby is rubbing their face excessively or aggressively, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It could be indicative of an underlying skin condition, such as eczema.
It’s also important to pay attention to any other signs your baby may exhibit. If your baby is rubbing their face because of a skin condition, you can take several steps to help them. For example, keeping their skin moisturized is key. You should also ensure your baby is wearing breathable fabrics and avoiding any irritants.
You can also try to distract them if they seem to be rubbing their face too much. Redirecting their attention to a toy can help take their focus off their face. Additionally, getting into a regular soothing routine, such as reading a book or singing lullabies, can help calm them down.
When your baby is displaying other signs of distress or is clearly in pain when they rub their face, you may need to seek medical attention. The best way to determine if anything is wrong is to speak to your pediatrician.
Wrapping Up
Overall, face rubbing is a natural behavior for babies and is usually nothing to worry about. However, if your baby seems to be rubbing their face excessively or aggressively, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition.
It’s important to consult your pediatrician if you are concerned. You can also help your baby if they seem to be in discomfort. Keeping their skin moisturized and avoiding any potential irritants can help.
Additionally, getting into a regular soothing routine can help to keep your baby calm and relaxed.
