Before my son was born, I made some baby balm and some special soap to use on his skin. I did this with full knowledge that I had a 50% chance, at best, that they would be good for his skin. After all, I had no idea what he would need!
Baby’s Bottom
While I was in the hospital, the nurses insisted that I use Vaseline on my son’s bottom. I’m not a big fan of Vaseline whatsoever, but I had no other option
while I was in the hospital. The Vaseline was great at creating a barrier between his dirty diapers and his sensitive skin.
As soon as I got home, I started using my homemade baby balm. It worked exactly the same as the Vaseline. The benefit of the baby balm is that it is made from a few oils and some beeswax, but no petroleum products!
I have continued using the Baby Balm at every diaper change since we got home!
Baby Skincare
We live in a fairly dry climate, so I wasn’t surprised when my son’s skin was a bit dry. To moisturize his skin, I give him a massage with coconut oil each day. The oil works great on his skin. It is moisturized without being oily.
Soap in the Bath
I received many differing opinions about how often to bath my baby and what kind of soap to use. In the end, I decided to give him a bath each morning, using the mild soap that I made before he was born. It’s a goat’s milk soap with no scent or additives. It is gentle enough on his skin that I don’t mind using it each morning in the bath.
What’s Next?
I’m looking forward to concocting some more baby products, using some essential oils, once my son gets a bit older. I’ll be sure to post about those when that time comes!
February 5, 2013 at 10:31 am
It’s wonderful to use homemade products knowing what in them. I have been reading to make a few basics as well. First on my list is a moisturizer. Good luck with your new concoctions!
February 5, 2013 at 4:25 pm
I definitely prefer to make my own skincare products when I can. Good luck with your moisturizer!
February 5, 2013 at 10:40 am
Awesome!! I am allergic to mineral oil so I can’t use baby oil or anything containing that. I love that you made all of these things for your baby and he will appreciate that later in life too!
February 5, 2013 at 4:24 pm
Your mineral oil allergy is probably a blessing in disguise. There are so many other cleaner options!
February 5, 2013 at 1:19 pm
I avoid Vaseline too! Glad you switched to natural products for your baby, nothing better than a home made treat for a delicate skin! 🙂
February 5, 2013 at 4:22 pm
Agreed!
February 5, 2013 at 5:42 pm
I have a new niece on the way that I’ll have to make some balm for. I make some Vicks substitute that I could use, just minus the essential oils. It has coconut oil, olive oil and beeswax. Is that what yours is made with? Oops, just saw your link – I’ll go and look.
February 8, 2013 at 11:28 am
Heidi — the baby balm that I made for my son had Almond Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Beeswax and Cocoa Butter. It’s worked like a dream!