The Best Essential Oils for Newborn Massage and What to Look For

The Best Essential Oils for Newborn Massage and What to Look For

As parents, you seek the best ways to care for your little bundle of joy. Essential oils can be a great addition to your baby’s skincare regime. Research suggests that daily massage sessions with the best essential oils not only enhance the bonding between you and your newborn but also offer calming and soothing benefits.
To ensure your precious one gets the full benefit of massage, choosing the best oil for newborn massage is crucial. However, it can be a little intimidating to get your hands on the best newborn massage oil, especially with so many options available in the market. Fret not!

This guide will give you a detailed understanding of the best essential oils, how to dilute them properly, and what to consider when choosing one.

Key Highlights:

  • Proper dilution is crucial as a newborn’s skin is extremely sensitive.
  • Essential oils crafted with natural ingredients offer soothing and calming benefits for babies when used in moderation.
  • Understanding your little one’s skin needs and the benefits of each essential oil ensures utmost safety.

Dilution is Key: How to Safely Dilute Essential Oils for Newborns

As your baby’s skin is delicate, you have to be extra cautious while selecting the best essential oils. Dilution is the golden rule for using essential oils on babies. According to experts, a dilution ratio of 0.5% is ideal for newborns. In simpler terms, for one drop of essential oil, you have to add two tbsp of carrier oils like almond or coconut oil. Proper dilution also reduces the risk of skin irritation or inflammation.

Some gentle essential oils ideal for newborns are olive oil, sunflower oil, and ashwagandha oil. These essential oils are known for their skin-softening and anti-inflammatory properties. However, don’t apply the diluted oil directly to your little one’s skin without performing a patch test. Wait for 24 hours to ensure there’s no reaction.

Why Essential Oils Matter in Newborn Massage

The benefits of massaging your newborn go beyond skin-deep. Studies have revealed that baby massages improve blood circulation, promote better sleep, and ease colic. By incorporating oils like almond, sunflower, olive, and coconut, you can enhance these benefits. Besides, due to their skin-soothing properties, these oils are frequently cited as the best oils for newborn massage. A gentle baby oil to massage with can be the perfect way to end your little one’s day, as it creates a sense of calmness, helping them feel secure.

Ensuring Your Baby’s Skin Tolerance for Oil Massage

Your baby’s skin is more prone to sensitivity and dryness as it is 20 times thinner than adults. Therefore, opting for a hypoallergenic baby oil to massage with is imperative, especially if your little one suffers from allergies or eczema. Some of the popular options include ashwagandha oil, almond oil, olive oil, and coconut oil. These oils are light and highly moisturizing.

Before settling on an oil, it’s essential to:

  • Apply a small amount to your baby’s elbow and observe for 24 hours.
  • Ensure the oil is pure without added toxins, fragrance or harmful chemicals.

Application Tips: How to Effectively Massage Your Newborn

Now that you know how to choose the best newborn massage oil, it’s time to gain an understanding of the techniques for massaging your newborn.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  • Choose a quiet room with soft lighting and warm temperatures.
  • Use gentle, upward strokes starting from the legs. Babies love smooth movements that aren’t too firm.
  • Start with a few drops in your hand.
  • Don’t apply too much oil, as it can make the skin greasy and slippery.
  • Newborn skin is sensitive, so use only light pressure.
  • The legs, back, and arms are great starting points.
  • Be cautious around the face and avoid the area around the soft spot on the top of the head (fontanelle).

Choosing High-Quality Essential Oils: What to Look For

Wondering what to look for when choosing high-quality essential oils? Here are some tips to guide you:

  • Always opt for pure essential oils without additives or fillers.
  • Trustworthy brands provide transparency about their ingredients and medical integrity.
  • Look for safety claims and dermatologist approved certifications.
  • Natural essential oils are free from harmful chemicals and toxins.

Some of the best newborn massage oil options often come from trusted, well-reviewed brands that prioritize safety and purity.

To Sum Up

Choosing the best oil for infant massage need not be challenging. All you have to do is ensure proper dilution and select high-quality oils. Remember, each baby is unique - what works wonders for one might not work for another, so always pay attention to your baby’s cues and adjust accordingly.

Take the time to select the best newborn massage oil for your little one that best suits your baby’s needs. After all, your precious one deserves nothing less than the best!

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

  • The Delicate Balance of Children's Skin: Why Ad...

    Are you using your shampoo for your kids as well? Is it safe for your kids? Are you a parent struggling to find the right skincare products for your kids...

    Read more

    The Delicate Balance of Children's Skin: Why Adult Skincare Isn't Suitable

    Are you using your shampoo for your kids as well? Is it safe for your kids? Are you a parent struggling to find the right skincare products for your kids and teens? Many parents even switch to using adult products once their kids reach 6 years old due to this confusion. As parents, our children's well-being is paramount, and understanding the unique needs of their developing skin and hair is crucial. Their skin and hair differ significantly from adults, and using adult products can have adverse effects. Dr. Prajakta Bhokre, a seasoned pediatrician and neonatologist in Pune, emphasizes, “Children's skin and hair are delicate and require special care. Adult skincare and hair care products can disrupt the delicate balance and harm their developing systems." Kids' Skin: A Delicate Canvas To comprehend the importance of specialized care for children's skin, we must recognize the structural differences between their skin and adults'. A child's skin is thinner, more delicate, and has a higher surface area to body weight ratio than adults. Their skin's natural protective barrier, composed of lipids, is not fully developed, which means their skin is not as efficient at retaining moisture and is more susceptible to dehydration, irritation, and damage from environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollutants. Even the pH level of a child's skin is more acidic, which helps to ward off harmful bacteria and makes it more sensitive to changes and potential damage. Their hair is finer and less oily, resulting in a greater tendency for tangles and breakage. Why It's Unsafe for Kids to Use Adult Products? Adult skincare and hair care products often contain potent ingredients like parabens, sulphates, silicones, talc, and phthalates that may be too harsh for a child's delicate skin and hair. Ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, and strong fragrances can strip away natural oils, disrupt the skin's pH balance, and cause allergies, rashes, or even chemical burns in children. Moreover, many adult products are formulated to address age-specific concerns, such as wrinkles or acne, which are not relevant to children. Ideal Ingredients for Kids' Skincare and Hair Care For kids aged 5-10, it's important to choose products with gentle, natural ingredients. Ingredients like almond oil, olive oil, basil oil, rice protein, aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, turmeric oil, and oats are not only nourishing but also gentle on young skin and hair. “These ingredients hydrate, protect, soothe, and help maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, promoting healthy growth and making them perfect for nurturing young skin and hair,” says Dr. Bhokre The Importance of Age-Appropriate Products (0-10 years) It's essential to select age-appropriate products for kids. Dr. Bhokre further states that “Children aged 5-10 years should use products specifically designed for their age group, such as baby products ranging from 0-10 years. These products are formulated with the unique needs of growing children's skin and hair in mind, providing gentle care without harsh chemicals.” They contain milder ingredients, ensuring that kids' skin remains protected and nourished. pH Levels: A Precarious Balance A child's skin is more prone to pH level changes than an adult's. Their skin's pH is naturally more acidic at around 5.5, which acts as a barrier against harmful bacteria. Adult products can disrupt this delicate balance, leaving their skin vulnerable, further leading to dryness, itchiness,  infections, or even eczema. Structural Differences in Hair In addition to skin, a child's hair is structurally different from an adult's. Children's hair is finer, more fragile, less porous and lacks the oil-producing capabilities of adult hair. Adult hair products may strip their hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Ingredients to Avoid in Kids' Products “When selecting skincare and hair care products for kids, it's essential to avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates, talc, asbestos, silicones, mineral oils, parabens, and strong fragrances. These ingredients can irritate the skin and harm their overall health”, says Dr. Bhokre. Opt for products that are free from harmful additives to keep the child’s skin healthy while keeping them safe from the detrimental effects of these harmful chemicals. At CITTA we focus on using the highest quality natural ingredients while keeping harsh chemicals at bay. Our products are carefully formulated to cater to the unique needs of children's skin and hair. CITTA prioritizes safety and nourishment for kids' skin and our commitment to natural ingredients ensures that children can enjoy healthy, glowing skin without the risk of adverse reactions. While it may be tempting to use adult skincare and hair care products on your children, it's essential to consider their unique skin and hair needs. Opt for products specifically designed for kids, enriched with natural ingredients, and free from harsh chemicals. Our products promote healthy skin for children while emphasizing the importance of nourishment and safety in children's skincare routines. After all, our children deserve the very best, and that begins with caring for their delicate skin and hair with the utmost attention and care.

    Read More
  • Baby's Delicate Skin Deserves the Best: Choose ...

    Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD) is a distinguished Consulting Pediatrician in Pune. With an impressive track record, he served as Former President of the Maharashtra State Academy of Pediatrics in 2010...

    Read more

    Baby's Delicate Skin Deserves the Best: Choose the Perfect Skincare for your Bundle of Joy

    Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD) is a distinguished Consulting Pediatrician in Pune. With an impressive track record, he served as Former President of the Maharashtra State Academy of Pediatrics in 2010 and Former President of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics Pune Branch from 2008 to 2009. He's also the Director of Unique Hospital for Children and Kartik Group of Hospitals in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune. Dr Dhekne is recognized as a Master Trainer for both the "Asthma Training Module" and "Problem-Solving in Paediatric Infectious Diseases (PSPID)" by IAP.  As you embark on this new adventure called parenting, keeping your bundle of joy cosy and well-fed becomes your top-most priority. You’d move mountains to ensure they’re showered with all the TLC in the world; you would go to any lengths to protect them. Apart from ensuring the right nutrition and shielding them from heat and cold, even delicate matters like choosing the right skincare for your ‘mini-me’ can become an uphill task. Their sensitive and delicate skin requires the utmost care. If you’re unsure about how to choose the best skincare products for your little munchkins, we’ve got you covered! Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD), who is among the distinguished consulting pediatricians from Pune, is here to drop some wisdom on pampering that adorable epidermis and the dos and don'ts of skincare for babies. He also gives us a low-down on how to pick the safest baby skincare brands: Allergen-free formulations:  Opt for products that are free from harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, and dyes. Allergen-free formulations are designed to minimise the risk of adverse reactions and are gentler on your baby's skin. Avoid harmful ingredients:  “Avoid products that contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and artificial preservatives, as these chemicals can cause skin irritations and potential long-term health risks. Instead, choose products with natural Indian ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, turmeric oil, and almond oil, known for their soothing properties,” says Dr Dhekne. Moisturisation is key: Babies are prone to dry skin, especially in certain weather conditions. Choose moisturising products specifically formulated for babies to keep their skin soft and hydrated. Read labels thoroughly: Take the time to read product labels carefully and pay attention to certifications such as ‘paediatrician-tested’ and ‘dermatologist-approved.’ These endorsements offer added assurance about the product's safety and efficacy. Minimalistic approach: Stick to the essentials for baby skincare, such as a gentle baby wash and moisturiser. Avoid overwhelming your baby’s skin with too many products. Consult a paediatric dermatologist: When in doubt, seek professional advice. Paediatricians can assess your baby’s skin type and recommend suitable products based on their needs. A dermatologist can also provide personalised guidance if your child has specific skin conditions like eczema or cradle cap. “The natural ingredients in babycare products help soothe and protect the delicate baby skin, leaving it soft, supple and healthy. Parents can witness improved skin conditions, reduced irritation and a noticeable difference in their baby's overall skin health after using natural and organic products,” adds Dr Dhekne. When it comes to baby skincare, it’s always better to exercise caution. You can embrace the benefits of natural care through CITTA’s dermatologist-approved and ‘conscious’ baby skincare products. The brand is committed to crafting products with natural ingredients while maintaining the highest safety and efficacy standards. CITTA’s baby skincare range comprises gentle and nourishing formulations enriched with plant extracts, essential oils, and botanical goodness.

    Read More