Newborn skin is pretty incredible. It’s soft, delicate, and uniquely equipped to protect your baby as they grow, but it also needs a little extra love. If you’re a new parent wondering how to care for your baby's skin without overdoing it, you’re not alone. The good news? A gentle, consistent baby skin care routine can go a long way in keeping things smooth, soothed, and simple.

We’re walking you through what makes baby skin different, how to keep it healthy, and what to do when things like diaper rash, cradle cap, or eczema pop up. Plus, we’ll share a few of our favorite go-to products to help support your routine.

Why baby skin is different (and what that means for your routine)

Compared to adult skin, baby skin is:

• Thinner (about 20–30% thinner, according to pediatric dermatologists)

• More absorbent

• More prone to dryness and irritation

• Still developing its barrier function

This means it’s more vulnerable to harsh ingredients, drying soaps, and even weather changes. That’s why dermatologists and pediatricians usually recommend avoiding unnecessary products and sticking to the basics: gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and protection.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, keeping baby skincare simple is best, especially during the first few weeks. Their guidance recommends short, lukewarm baths 2–3 times a week; using mild, fragrance‑free soap or cleanser; and applying product only to needed areas (like the diaper area, neck folds, or where there’s visible dirt or moisture). 

Step 1: Gentle cleansing

Your baby's skin doesn’t need to be scrubbed. Instead, go for short, lukewarm baths and wash only where needed (think: diaper area, folds, milk-dribbled necks). 2–3 baths a week is plenty for most babies unless they’ve had a major blowout or sunscreen day.

Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser made for babies, like our Hair + Body Wash, which is part of The Regulars Bundle. It’s gentle enough for daily use and won’t strip away natural moisture.

Step 2: Moisturize daily

Because baby skin is so thin, it loses moisture faster. A fragrance-free baby lotion or cream can help lock in hydration and protect that delicate skin barrier. Moisturizing right after bath time (when skin is still damp) is ideal.

For everyday moisture, reach for Dream Cream or Everyday Lotion. If your baby is experiencing extra dryness or flakiness, especially during seasonal transitions, try All Over Ointment for added support.

Step 3: Diaper area care

Diaper rash is common, especially during the first year. To help prevent it, change diapers frequently and let baby go diaper-free when possible to let the skin breathe. Always pat (don’t rub!) the area dry.

Use a barrier cream like Diaper Paste or Diaper Paste Spray to protect the skin especially during teething, illness, or after introducing new foods.

Step 4: Sun protection

According to the AAP, babies under 6 months should be kept out of direct sun when possible. For older babies, use protective clothing, hats, and a baby-safe mineral sunscreen when needed.

Remember: a wide-brimmed hat and shade go a long way. And if you’re unsure whether your baby is ready for sunscreen, check with your pediatrician first.

Step 5: Spot-treat common skin concerns

Even with a consistent routine, baby skin can still surprise you. From flaky patches to irritation around the diaper line, it's all part of the process. Knowing how to respond—and when to ask your pediatrician—can make a big difference in how confident you feel as a parent.

Cradle cap, for example, is super common in the first few months of life. It often looks like dry, flaky skin or yellowish patches on the scalp. While it usually doesn’t bother your baby, it can be tricky to treat. Our Bye-Bye Cradle Cap gel was made just for this: powered by zinc pyrithione and paired with plant-based ingredients like aloe and cucumber, it helps gently loosen flakes and soothe irritation. It’s part of our Cradle Cap Bundle and works best when followed with a light layer of All Over Ointment to lock in moisture.

Another common concern is eczema. Pediatric dermatologists recommend a short list of fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested products to help hydrate and calm irritated skin. Our All Over Ointment Eczema Treatment contains colloidal oatmeal and is formulated specifically for dry, eczema-prone skin. Use it daily on affected areas or as a preventive step during seasonal changes.

And then there’s diaper rash, a rite of passage in babyhood.. Our Diaper Paste and Diaper Paste Spray are both great options for soothing and protecting your little one’s most sensitive skin. The spray version is especially helpful for travel, middle-of-the-night changes, or babes who hate cold creams.

Beyond these common concerns, keep in mind that baby skin is still adjusting to the outside world. Some dryness, redness, or flaking is totally normal. Trust your instincts, watch for changes, and when in doubt, check in with your pediatrician. You know your baby best.

Keep it simple, keep it consistent

The best baby skin care routine is one that works for your fam and one that you can stick with. You don’t need 10 different products to do it "right."

Start with the basics: a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, and a diaper cream. Then add in special treatments only when needed.

We designed The Regulars Bundle to support everyday care without overwhelm. It includes our Hair + Body Wash, All Over Ointment, and Everyday Lotion—everything you need to get started, all in one place.

Want to keep learning?

You don’t have to figure it all out at once. If you’re still navigating those early days of skincare, here are a few posts we think you’ll find helpful:

• Choosing the Best Baby Lotion: Not sure what to look for? We break down ingredients, textures, and how to find the right fit for your baby’s skin type.
  

• When Can I Put Lotion on My Newborn?: A common (and important!) question. This guide walks you through what to use, when to start, and how to keep that delicate skin protected.
  

Because every baby is different—and every day is too—it helps to have a few trusted tools and tips in your back pocket.