No matter the reason, you’ll want to look for a baby lotion with clean and safe ingredients as they could otherwise irritate your little one’s skin. Depending on how dry your baby’s skin is, know whether you need to reach for a lotion (the lightest form of hydration), a cream (a denser, heavier moisturizer), or an ointment (a thicker, more emollient formula that creates a barrier to seal in moisture). We carefully considered skin types, ingredients, design, and value when reviewing products. To help you find the best one for your baby’s needs, here are the best baby lotions on the market. Plus, this baby lotion smells amazing and is offered at a reasonable price. The lotion is available in two irresistible fragrances: lavender and citrus, or you can opt for the scent-free version. Price at time of publication: $18 Plus, it’s got that classic scent that Johnson & Johnson has become known for. You might even be tempted to use it on yourself! Price at time of publication: $10 Reviewers have dubbed it the “miracle cream” for their little ones’ skin issues, like dryness, cradle cap, and baby acne. The thick texture doesn’t feel greasy, and the formula is fragrance-free. Price at time of publication: $20 It’s the pediatrician-recommended ointment for baby eczema, and you’ll see most cases resolve themselves in just a few days once you begin applying Vaseline regularly. We like Vaseline Petroleum Jelly for Baby, which has a light and fresh scent that you’ll love and that won’t irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. Price at time of publication: $21 Fend off dry skin during the colder months or tackle that peeling newborn skin by applying a thin layer of Aquaphor after bathtime. Dealing with cradle cap? Aquaphor can handle all but the most severe cases. Simply apply all over your baby’s scalp after a bath, and then cover with a cap for overnight relief. Price at time of publication: $12 It’s great for taking on dry skin, especially during that newborn peeling stage. It goes on silky smooth and doesn’t feel too greasy. Plus, it’s formulated with natural ingredients like plant-based glycerin and avocado perseose (a patented ingredient only used by Mustela) that are safe for a baby right from the start. Price at time of publication: $24 Not only is it great for baby’s skin, but this balm can also be used by others in the family. It doubles as nipple cream, hand balm, and body moisturizer. Price at time of publication: $9 Not only is Weleda face cream suitable for newborn and baby skin, but it also makes a great soothing lotion for sunburn or even eczema. Price at time of publication: $12 Formulated with lavender and clary sage essential oils, this light cream smells amazing and goes on easily for lasting moisturization. You can use California Baby’s Calendula Cream on a host of skin issues outside of sensitive skin, too. It’s effective on mild cases of cradle cap, eczema, and even diaper rash. Price at time of publication: $22
Multi-Functional
Of course, your baby lotion isn’t limited to simply hydrating the skin. There are some lotions on the market that are great for clearing up more severe skin conditions such as cradle cap and eczema. Finding a lotion that can be used for various skin conditions is a great option, especially if your baby has very sensitive skin.
Lotions vs. Creams vs. Ointments
While the three of these are all similar in nature, creams and ointments feel heavier than lotions since they have a higher concentration of oil. Lotions are the thinnest of the three, so they’re the easiest to spread and absorb fast. However, if you’re looking for something to be ultra moisturizing or help heal a skin issue like eczema, it may be best to go with a cream or ointment.
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However, if you notice whatever you’re doing at home isn’t working, contact your child’s pediatrician with your concerns. They may have answers for you or will possibly refer you to a specialist. During those winter months, it can be easy to feel like your little one needs a ton of lotion to prevent dryness from kicking in. However, you can take other steps to take care of your baby’s skin (and your own!) by using a humidifier. Moisture from your skin can be pulled by dry air, resulting in dryer skin.
