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Patting the baby’s bottom with baby powder has been an age old tradition that we have followed unquestioningly for many years. We’ve seen our parents do, we ourselves include baby powder as an essential on the shopping list for our toddler, and there are adorable ads on television with a gurgling baby sitting happily while its bottom is dusted lovingly with baby powder.
Baby powder is usually considered an effective solution against nappy rashes, and in scorching heat it keeps the baby cool and comfortable. However, there has been a lot of controversy on whether the use of baby powder is advisable or not. Read on to find out what the experts have to say on this matter.
Avoid Using Talcum Powder
Pediatricians strongly advise against the use of talcum powders on babies. Talcum powder is made up of finely ground zinc stearate and a number of silicates. Grounding of these substances makes them so fine that they can be inhaled quite easily by the baby. This can be extremely dangerous for them, as these tiny particles can cause several respiratory problems. Long term use may even lead to cancer.
The conventional talcum powders are fast being replaced by cornstarch-based powders which are far safer for babies. They fight diaper rashes well and reduce the moisture and the resultant friction between the diaper and skin in the diaper area.
What Pediatricians Have to Say
Pediatricians are of the opinion that it’s best to keep the use of powder, whether organic or homemade, to a minimal. They are skeptical of its benefits in preventing nappy rash and recommend a barrier ointment over powders, even organic ones.
Some recommend corn starch powders as they have large and coarse particles, making them more difficult to inhale. However, there are some doctors who believe that treatment of diaper rash with powder is a myth that is being perpetuated due to ignorance in every century. To prevent diaper rash they suggest that drying the baby’s bottom when changing the diaper and applying a cream or ointment instead of powder will be more useful.
If the skin of the baby is raw with diaper rash, it’s best to keep powders away, even cornstarch ones. Ointments and creams are much better at resolving the problem.
Tips on Using Baby Powder
If you insist on using powder on your baby, keep the following tips in mind.
- Never create a cloud of powder as it can cause your child to inhale the tiny particles, which can cause problems in the lungs.
- The powder should never cake in the crevices, folds, and cracks of the baby’s skin. This could lead to skin infection. Pay particular attention to the folds in the neck or the groin.
- Pour a small amount of powder into your hands, away from the baby’s face, and apply it in the area where you notice the appearance of a rash.
- Keep the container of powder away from the baby, at a safe distance, to avoid any chances of the baby knocking it down and creating a cloud.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/why-baby-powder- is-dangerous-to-your-baby039s-health-1862816.html About the Author
Raise your baby in the healthiest and most optimal environment ever. Learn how to deal with baby problems naturally. Get your copy of the #1 bestselling Organic Baby Bible.
Click here to download your copy of the Organic Baby Baby now. | 