We are deep in the throes of winter and for much of the country that means dry, cracked, itchy skin. While many of us simply slather on the moisturizer and call it a day, when it comes to our kids we are always looking for better ways to treat their skin. Of course you can research all sorts of creams and ointments. Sometimes there may be a specific brands that simply works best for your kid.
But if you find yourself spending way too much time and money trying to find that perfect topical fix, think about some other changes that could help as well. Using moisturizer daily might not be enough to keep your child's skin from getting dry and itchy. Here are a few other things you can do to help make sure they stay comfy.
First, use a humidifier. Winter air is dry, and it gets dryer when you have the heat on in your home. Adding moisture to the air can sooth dry winter skin. Humidifiers don't only help keep skin moisturized, they also can help ward off viruses as it keeps your nose and throat from getting too dry.
Second, keep them bundled up.
Cold, winter air dries out the skin quickly. Keeping it covered with coats, gloves, hats, and scarves can protect it in a way that moisturizers cannot.
But the third, and possibly most effective way to help your child combat dry, winter skin is the most surprising of them all.
Change Your Child's Underwear.
Clothing that is scratchy or restrictive can rub and thereby dry out the skin. While it is possible to wear loose-fitting sweaters and pants in the winter that do not cause irritation, consider the clothing that comes in closest contact with your child's skin. Make sure their underwear is soft and fits well, to minimize any rubbing or chaffing.
The fabric in your child's underwear should be organic cotton or a soft cotton blend that lets their skin breathe. Some fabrics are stifling and make kids sweat, and harsh dyes and chemicals can leave a residue behind that further irritates skin.
If there are seams on the underwear, like with boxers and boxer briefs, make sure they are flat and not itchy. If your child is wearing layers on top of a bulky and itchy seam, they could end up with red, itchy, or chaffed skin.
It's amazing how much of a difference great underwear can make when it comes to your child's skin, and how easily it's overlooked. This is the reason we started Lucky & Me, and this mission keeps us going every day.
By Stacey.