Let’s explore these common pitfalls and how to avoid them. **1. Over-Washing:**
Over-washing can strip away the natural oils that keep your child’s skin hydrated and healthy. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and even eczema flare-ups. **2.
Prasanna Vasanadu, Parent Educator and Founder of Tikitoro, shared, “One common mistake parents make is using adult skincare products on their kids. Children’s skin is more sensitive to harsh chemicals, perfumes and preservatives found in these products. Adult products often contain stronger active ingredients, alcohol, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances, which can disrupt a child’s skin barrier. Even “natural” or “organic” items may contain ingredients unsuitable for delicate skin. Always opt for skincare products specifically formulated for kids—hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested.” 2. Neglecting Sun Protection: According to Dr Rishabh Raj Sharma, some parents underestimate the importance of sunscreen but kids need protection from UV rays, so applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is crucial, even on cloudy days.
Prasanna Vasanadu added, “Ignoring sunscreen is a major skincare mistake parents often make. The ultraviolet radiation from the sun can seriously harm a kid’s skin, raising the possibility of sunburn as well as long-term consequences like early aging or even skin cancer. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 that’s formulated for kids, and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Protecting their skin from an early age helps build healthy habits for the future.” 3. Overbathing: Dr Rishabh Raj Sharma cautioned, “Bathing kids too frequently or using hot water can strip their skin of natural oils, leading to dryness. Aim for lukewarm baths and limit them to a few times a week.”
**Additional points to consider:**
* **The problem:** What exactly is the problem you are addressing? * **The solution:** What are the proposed solutions to the problem? * **The impact:** How will the proposed solutions affect the target audience? **Example:**
**Problem:** Rising rates of childhood obesity. **Solution:** Promoting healthy eating habits and regular physical activity.
5. Not Addressing Skin Issues Promptly: Dr Rishabh Raj Sharma said, “Parents may overlook signs of skin problems like rashes or eczema. It’s important to consult a pediatrician or dermatologist if any persistent issues arise to ensure proper treatment.” 6. Using products that contain strong fragrances: For kids with sensitive skin, Prasanna Vasanadu pointed out that fragrances in skincare products are a major source of allergic reactions. She said, “Fragrances can range from body washes to scented lotions and can aggravate skin problems like dermatitis or eczema by causing redness, irritation, or rash. The wise choice is the look for products that have allergen-free fragrances, which are IFRA certified.”
7. Using Over-the-Counter creams without consulting with an expert: Prasanna Vasanadu highlighted, “Parents commonly try to cure rashes with over-the-counter (OTC) lotions without consulting a doctor. This leads to postponing the treatment of illnesses like eczema, fungal infections, or allergic responses, which exacerbates the issue. Consult with a paediatrician or dermatologist if a rash intensifies, lasts longer than a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever. OTC creams, particularly steroid creams, should not be used on young skin without a doctor’s advice.”
