23 October 2023 , 12:19
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Eczema (60%), nappy rash (22%), and allergic reactions (13%) are the top skin complaints that cause parents the most worry during their baby's first 12 months, a study has found.
The research of 500 parents, of one- to three-years-olds, found that nine in ten have experienced skin-related worries during their little one's first year – with 12% fretting about at least five skin issues in this time.
And two-thirds of those polled say they only trust their doctor to reassure them in such instances – with skin problems being the most likely reason to take their baby to see a doctor during the first year or their life.
However, more than a quarter (26%) will always turn to the internet in an attempt to identify marks or rashes on their infant's skin.
But of those who have done so, 73% believe there are too many scaremongering articles, or outright misinformation, about baby skin issues online.
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The research was commissioned by WaterWipes UK and Ireland, whose baby care products are made from just two ingredients – 99.9% water, and a drop of fruit extract.
And 87% have tried various remedies and treatments to try and restore their baby's newborn skin smoothness (Foto Duets/Getty Images)And it also emerged that over three-quarters of parents (76%), who have had to deal with a rash or similar problem, have worried others would judge their parenting abilities as a result.
Consequently, 87% have tried various remedies and treatments to get their little one as smooth as when they were born – with the same amount believing there is nothing in the world as smooth as a new baby’s skin.
Dr Laura Proudfoot, a paediatric dermatologist, and ambassador for WaterWipes UK, said: “It can be hard not to worry about rashes on your little one, and the temptation to rush online for a diagnosis is strong.
“Parents should always consult their doctor for any concerns – but worrying about your baby's skin is natural, and it's also an opportunity to choose wisely. Look for products with fewer ingredients, and those that help to protect your baby's skin.”
Just over a fifth (21%) of parents polled felt there weren’t enough resources or support on how to see their child through its first year.
And of those whose youngsters were diagnosed with an allergic reaction to a certain food or material, 40% have swapped their baby’s daily skin care routine to products that are more suitable for sensitive skin.
Parents were also more relaxed the more children they had – with 50% confessing they worried far more about skin issues with their firstborn, than any subsequent kids.
However, 86% say it’s better to be over-cautious than not cautious at all, according to the OnePoll.com data.
Brogan Chester, spokeswoman for WaterWipes UK and Ireland, which have been approved by Allergy UK, and are the first and only wipe to be certified as microbiome friendly by MyMicrobiome, added: “A baby's skin is precious, and deserves the utmost care.
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“As our research shows, it’s only natural to worry about your baby – but it’s great to see that some parents are already making the swap to products that are suitable for sensitive skin.”