Your baby’s skin plays a vital role in their health and acts as a defense mechanism against irritants, germs and bacteria. The skin also regulates the internal temperature of the body and is a tool through which the child explores the world with touch.
The structure of the skin
The skin is made up of three overlapping layers, each of which performs a specific function.
The epidermis is the outermost layer: it represents a real barrier against the penetration of foreign substances such as microbes, pollutants, impurities, dust and other substances which could attack the body by penetrating it. It is made up of epithelial cells that can become damaged following inflammation, cuts or burns.
Below the epidermis is the dermis, a skin layer that nourishes the skin. It is made up of a superficial part made up of small prominences called papillae, and a deeper part which gives the skin elasticity and resistance. Inside the dermis there are hair follicles (in which hair develops) and skin glands: the sweat glands that secrete sweat, and the sebaceous glands that produce sebum, the natural lubricant of the skin. Sebum and sweat together make up the so-called hydrolipidic film (or acid mantle) on the surface of the skin, which is important because it makes it soft, resistant and waterproof. The barrier function of the newborn’s skin is closely related to this layer and in particular to the ceramides, which contribute to maintaining its integrity, increasing hydration and elasticity.
The deepest layer of the skin is the hypodermis and basically has the task of protecting the organs from trauma and heat dispersion.
The epidermis is the outermost layer: it represents a real barrier against the penetration of foreign substances such as microbes, pollutants, impurities, dust and other substances which could attack the body by penetrating it. It is made up of epithelial cells that can become damaged following inflammation, cuts or burns.
Below the epidermis is the dermis, a skin layer that nourishes the skin. It is made up of a superficial part made up of small prominences called papillae, and a deeper part which gives the skin elasticity and resistance. Inside the dermis there are hair follicles (in which hair develops) and skin glands: the sweat glands that secrete sweat, and the sebaceous glands that produce sebum, the natural lubricant of the skin. Sebum and sweat together make up the so-called hydrolipidic film (or acid mantle) on the surface of the skin, which is important because it makes it soft, resistant and waterproof. The barrier function of the newborn’s skin is closely related to this layer and in particular to the ceramides, which contribute to maintaining its integrity, increasing hydration and elasticity.
The deepest layer of the skin is the hypodermis and basically has the task of protecting the organs from trauma and heat dispersion.
The peculiarities of newborn skin
Due to its characteristics, newborn skin is extremely sensitive and must therefore be protected and treated with extreme care in the first months and years of life. Compared to that of adults, children’s skin:
- It is about 20-30% thinner
- It tends to dry out more
- It hydrates and dehydrates faster
- It is more prone to allergies and irritation
Given its sensitivity, your baby’s skin needs to be better protected against environmental changes and aggressive detergents. To clean your little one, therefore, use delicate and non-aggressive detergents and moisturizing creams designed specifically for children, such as those from Babycoccole.
ADVICE FROM THE BABYCOCCOLE EXPERTS
Maintaining the correct level of skin hydration is essential to guarantee barrier functionality and support its constitution from the first days of life. From the birth of your baby, use hydrating cleansing products with pure and natural active ingredients, of plant origin, which are delicate even on the most sensitive skin.
