Why Healthy Skin Matters for Kids
Healthy skin is not just about aesthetics; it is a reflection of overall well-being. Children aged 5-10 are particularly vulnerable to skin issues due to their active lifestyles and developing immune systems. Skin problems can profoundly impact their self-esteem, social interactions, and even lead to long-term dermatological conditions. Instilling habits that can have a lasting impact on a child's skin health not only promotes radiant, youthful skin but also lays the foundation for a lifetime of sound skincare practices. It will also empower your children to take charge of their well-being.
1. Teach the Basics: Cleansing and Moisturizing
Start by teaching children the importance of a daily skincare routine. Encourage them to wash their face with a natural and mild baby wash every morning and before bedtime. Follow up with a gentle moisturizer or a natural moisturizing balm to keep their skin hydrated. These simple steps prevent dryness and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Make it an enjoyable experience by choosing skincare products that are natural, mild, allergen-free and kid-friendly.
One of the leading paediatricians in Pune, Dr Shilpa Baviskar, says “One of the most prevalent skin issues in children aged 5-10 is dryness, primarily attributed to air pollution and low humidity levels. Additionally, their skin is 10 times thinner than adult skin, making it more prone to dryness and consequently leading to discomfort and potentially more severe conditions if not addressed promptly.”
To combat this problem, Dr. Baviskar recommends using natural ingredients like coconut oil to rehydrate the skin. “Coconut oil and almond Oil, with their rich moisturizing properties, help replenish the skin's moisture barrier, leaving it soft and supple. Unlike chemical-laden skincare products that can further deplete moisture, natural oils provide a gentle and effective solution.”
2. The Magic of Hydration
Hydration is the key to healthy skin at any age. Instil the habit of drinking water throughout the day by making it readily available and exciting. Fruit-infused water and reusable water bottles can pique their interest. Teach them how staying hydrated not only keeps their skin healthy but also keeps them feeling energetic and refreshed.
3. Hands Off the Face
Kids often touch their faces throughout the day. Make them understand the importance of keeping their hands clean and avoiding unnecessary touching. This simple habit can reduce the risk of transferring dirt and bacteria to their faces, minimizing breakouts. Moreover, children can be prone to skin irritations and allergies due to exposure to various environmental factors. Dr Baviskar advises parents to choose allergen-free and harsh chemical-free skin care products to minimize the risk of skin reactions. Natural products that are gentle on the skin, like natural oil-based moisturizer, body oil, or body wash, can be a safe choice.4. Embrace the goodness of nature
Introduce children to natural skincare, protecting their skin and fostering a lifelong commitment to a healthy lifestyle. It's an investment in their well-being that goes beyond the surface. Dr Shilpa Baviskar further mentioned that “Natural ingredients such as aloe vera, olive oil, and turmeric oil have soothing and healing properties that can benefit young skin. They are less likely to cause allergies or skin reactions.”
Teach your children about natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, almond oil, oats, turmeric oil, and ashwagandha oil and incorporate these into their skincare routine or use products that contain these ingredients. This will not only enhance their skin's health but also emphasize the importance of using products free from harsh chemicals.
We at CITTA, crafted our Moisturizing Baby Balm as an all-in-one solution to nurture the delicate skin of young children. The balm is enriched with coconut oil, almond oil, turmeric oil and five other natural oils renowned for their hydrating, soothing and nourishing properties. These oils work together to combat dryness and provide a protective layer that shields the skin from environmental factors.
CITTA's entire range of baby and kid bath and skin care products is crafted with natural ingredients to nourish and moisturize the skin while fostering overall skin health and well-being. Their comprehensive product line constitutes a complete skincare regimen for kids and babies, promoting healthy and radiant skin.
Nurturing healthy skin habits in children aged 5 to 10 is an investment in their long-term well-being. Dr Baviskar concludes, "Making skincare fun and informative can empower your child to take charge of their skin health from an early age. By incorporating natural ingredients into their skincare routines and teaching them the importance of protecting their skin from a young age, parents can set their children on a path to lifelong skin health. It's an investment in their well-being and self-confidence."
As parents, we must ensure our children grow up with healthy skin habits that will serve them well into adulthood, helping them develop a sense of confidence and self-worth that radiates from within.
Dr. Shilpa Baviskar (Chakne), an MD in Pediatrics and IDPCCM from Hinduja Hospital, Pune, is a renowned Consultant Pediatric Intensivist. With expertise in pediatric care, she's a trusted figure in Pune's medical community, dedicated to the well-being of children.