In This Article Show
FAST FACTS
- Oatmeal bath is great for babies as it has major benefits to your babies’ skincare. However, there are also a few setbacks that have been associated with giving babies oatmeal baths.
- Some alternatives for oatmeal baths include coconut oil, lavender essential oils, aloe vera extract, and chamomile tea.
- When adding oatmeal baths to your baby’s skincare routine, use only finely ground oats and avoid adding too much to your baby’s bath water, as this will make it too thick.
When caring for a baby’s delicate skin, parents always look for safe and effective remedies. One such remedy that has gained popularity recently is the oatmeal bath for babies.
Oatmeal is known for its soothing properties and is believed to improve skin health.
However, like any other remedy, there are pros and cons to using an oatmeal bath for babies. This article will explore the benefits and drawbacks of using an oatmeal bath for babies to help parents make informed decisions.
Pros Of Giving Oatmeal Baths To Babies
If you’re a new parent, you may have heard about oatmeal baths for babies. Oatmeal baths are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional baby bath products.
But what exactly are the benefits of giving your little one an oatmeal bath? Here we look at some of the pros of using this natural remedy for your baby’s skincare needs;
Great deals to snatch for your little ones 🎉
1. Soothing Effects
One of the main advantages of oatmeal baths is that they can help soothe and relieve itchy, dry skin. Oats contain compounds called saponins which act as a natural cleanser and moisturizer, helping to remove dirt and oil from the skin while also locking in moisture.
This makes them ideal for treating conditions such as eczema or cradle cap, both common issues among infants and young children.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Oats also contain anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation caused by rashes or other skin irritations.
The oats create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps protect against further damage from environmental factors like wind or sun exposure. Furthermore, their antioxidant content helps fight free radicals that can cause premature aging in delicate baby skin.
3. Easy To Formulate
Another great benefit is that oatmeal baths are incredibly easy to make at home. All you need is some plain oatmeal, a blender or food processor, and warm water. Simply blend the oats until they are a fine powder and add them to your baby’s bathwater. This natural remedy can be used as often as needed without any harsh chemicals or additives that could irritate sensitive skin.
4. Very Cost Effective
Oatmeal baths are incredibly affordable. Oats are one of the most inexpensive ingredients you can buy at the grocery store so this is an easy way to save money while still providing your little one with quality skin care. Plus, since oats have such a long shelf life, you don’t have to worry about them going bad before you use them all up.
Cons Of Giving Oatmeal Baths To Babies
When it comes to caring for a baby’s delicate skin, parents often turn to oatmeal baths as an all-natural solution. While there are some benefits of giving your little one an oatmeal bath, there are also some cons you should be aware of before making the decision. Here are five potential drawbacks of giving your baby an oatmeal bath:
1. Allergies
Oats contain gluten and can cause allergic reactions in babies with sensitivities or allergies to this protein. If you’re unsure whether your child has any food allergies, it’s best to consult with their pediatrician before introducing them to oats in any form.
2. Messy
Oats tend to get everywhere when added to a bathtub. Not only is this messy but it can also clog up drains if not cleaned out properly after each use.
3. Ineffective
Some studies suggest that while oat baths may help soothe dry skin, they don’t actually do much else beyond providing temporary relief from itching.
4. Time-Consuming
Preparing an oatmeal bath can be time-consuming and requires a lot of effort to ensure the oats are properly mixed into the water. This may not be ideal for busy parents who don’t have much extra time on their hands.
Dos And Don’ts Of Using Oatmeal Bath For Babies
If you’re looking for a natural way to soothe your baby’s skin, an oatmeal bath may be just the thing. Oatmeal baths help relieve dryness and itching caused by eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions.
But before you give your little one an oatmeal bath, there are some dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind;
The Dos
- Use finely ground oats. You want to make sure that the oats used in the bath are finely ground so they can dissolve easily in water without clumping up or leaving residue on your baby’s skin.
- It is best to add essential oils. Essential oils like lavender or chamomile can help further soothe irritated skin while also providing a pleasant scent for your baby’s bath time experience. Ensure not to add too much, as it could irritate their delicate skin even more.
- Always keep it lukewarm. Make sure the temperature of the water is lukewarm (not hot!) when adding the oatmeal mixture into it, as this will ensure maximum comfort for your little one during their soak time!
The Don’ts
- Don’t use too much oatmeal. Too much oatmeal can make the bath water thick and slimy, making your baby uncomfortable. Stick to a ratio of 1/2 cup of oats per gallon of water for best results.
- Please don’t leave them in the bath too long. An oatmeal bath should only last about 10-15 minutes as any longer than that could cause their skin to dry or irritated from over-soaking.
- Don’t forget to moisturize afterward. After an oatmeal bath, applying a gentle moisturizer on your baby’s skin is important to stay hydrated and healthy.
Oatmeal Baths Alternatives For Babies
If you are not very impressed with the benefits of oatmeal baths for babies, here are a number of other alternatives you can safely try out for your baby;
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer for babies with dry skin. It helps protect the skin barrier while providing hydration and nourishment. You can apply it directly to the affected area or mix it with your baby’s bath water for extra moisture.
2. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel has anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for soothing irritated skin caused by eczema or rashes. You can apply aloe vera gel directly onto the affected area twice a day as needed, or add a few drops into your baby’s bathwater before they get in the tub.
3. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea contains natural compounds that help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin caused by eczema flare-ups or rashes due to allergies. You can make a chamomile tea bath by steeping two to three bags of chamomile tea in hot water for 10 minutes, then add the mixture to your baby’s bathwater.
4. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil is known for its calming and soothing properties, making it a great addition to your baby’s skincare routine. Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your baby’s bathwater or apply it directly to the affected area as needed.
Conclusion
After weighing the oatmeal bath’s pros and cons for babies, it’s clear that it can be a soothing and effective way to treat certain skin conditions. However, it’s crucial to consider the potential risks and exercise caution when giving your baby an oatmeal bath.
Consulting with a pediatrician and following proper guidelines for preparation and application can ensure a safe and effective experience for both you and your little one.
Ultimately, the decision to use an oatmeal bath is up to the parent, but with proper care and attention, it can be a beneficial addition to your baby’s skincare routine.
