As adults, our skin can really suffer in summer, whether it's with everyday dryness or a nasty patch of sunburn, so it's even more important to make sure delicate baby skin is protected when the weather hots up.

6 ways to look after your baby’s skin in summer

6 ways to look after your baby’s skin in summer

"Having a baby during the summer months can bring an array of environmental factors which can potentially aggravate your little one's skin," says Dr Stefanie Williams, dermatologist and baby skincare expert for Aveeno.

"Simple things like increased sweating, indoor air conditioning and humid nights can play havoc with baby's delicate skin."

Father Holding Newborn Baby Son In Nursery
Father Holding Newborn Baby Son In Nursery

But if you follow a few simple steps, you can ensure your little one's complexion is healthy from top to toe.

Here, Dr Williams shares six tips on how to care for baby skin during summer.

1. Keep skin cool

"Babies can be prone to overheating through the summer months as their sweat glands are still developing, and are therefore very sensitive.

"Bathing them in a short (five to 10 minutes), lukewarm bath each day can help to keep them cool and clean."

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2. Moisturise mildly

"As baby skin cannot retain moisture the same way an adult can, after bathing immediately apply a moisturiser to damp skin, to ensure baby's skin is kept hydrated.

"Use a slightly lighter emollient in the Summer, such as Aveeno Baby Daily Care Moisturising Lotion (GBP 2.99 Boots) as part of your baby's daily skincare routine to keep skin comfortable.

3. Avoid the sun

"Babies under two should not be exposed to direct sun for long periods of time, even if wearing sunscreen.

"Covering your baby with breathable, natural material layers such as cotton (not wool), will help to keep baby cool whist also protecting them from the sun."

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PEELING SKIN . When babies are newborns, they sometimes have dry-looking skin with some mild peeling. . This is a normal newborn process and doesn't require any treatment. I usually recommend against lotions or creams for this as their skin is just adjusting to the normal air. Remember, they have been in the womb for 9 months! . They have been covered by a thick whitish substance called vernix that covers baby's skin to protect it in the womb. Vernix is thicker prior to week 40. Babies are less likely to peel when they have a thicker vernix layer. When babies are born, this layer is rubbed off if still in place. The skin then needs to adjust to the normal air. It is all part of the normal transition process! . If there are areas that are red, irritated, or seem to cause discomfort to your baby, please go to doctor or provider to be evaluated. You will be seeing your doctor very often during the newborn phase so they will be evaluating skin as well! . Did you notice peeling with your baby's skin? . . . . . #firstbabygirl #firstbabyboy #firstbaby #mamasfirstbaby #newmama #newmomlife #newmommy #newmommylife #newmomproblems #momhelp #momshelpingmoms #mommyneedshelp #newmommies #babyskin #newborn This is meant for educational purposes and is not intended to replace medical advice by your doctor or provider.

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4. Avoid irritants

"If you notice your baby has dry patches on their skin, use products that have been created especially for sensitive skin.

"Look for those that are fragrance free, as fragrances are potential irritants."

5. Look out for cradle crap

"Does your little one have a dry, flaky scalp? This could be cradle cap, a common skin condition that may begin in the first few weeks of life and can last several weeks or months.

"To help remove flakes of cradle cap, gently massage with a moisturising lotion to soften. Wait a few minutes and then comb gently to remove the flakes. Follow with a gentle wash, rinse thoroughly and then gently pat dry.

"Remember to be extra gentle when massaging or washing around the fontanels, or soft spots, on your baby's head and seek advice from your doctor if the skin becomes inflamed or you have any other concerns."

6. Minimise eczema flare-ups

Mother is applying cream to the baby boy which helps to maintain skin face hydration, Skincare and moisturizing cream concept
Mother is applying cream to the baby boy which helps to maintain skin face hydration, Skincare and moisturizing cream concept

"Does your family suffer from eczema? Eczema belongs to a group of conditions called 'atopic', so, if there are any atopic diseases in the family, eczema is more likely to come through to offspring.

"You'll be glad to hear that most children outgrow eczema before they start school.

"It's tricky to try to predict how long your little one will suffer with eczema, but the best thing to do is to try managing it and reducing flare-ups as much as possible, which can be done through following a good skincare routine using products created with sensitive, eczema-prone skin in mind.

"Certain lifestyle and environmental factors such as detergent contact and air conditioning, may aggravate the condition or trigger flare-ups."