Massages are soothing and relaxing for everybody, yes, for babies too. In places like India, as soon as the baby turns three months old, a booking for a baby massage is made, or you can even do it yourself. You may be wondering why a baby would need a massage, but there are many benefits of massage to a baby like –
- Proper functioning of all body parts of the baby
- Massaging the arms and legs boosts the blood circulation
- It makes the baby sleep better
- It is especially beneficial for premature babies as it helps in a batter
- sleep and eating patterns and weight gain
- Lastly, massage acts as a natural skin care for everyone
You may be wondering what type of oils should be used to massage a baby. Not all oils can be used as babies have soft and tender skin, and the use of the wrong oil can be harmful to their skin. So, newborn massage oil that is considered best are –
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is suitable, especially during hot and humid climates. It has a light texture, so it gets absorbed easily during a massage. It has a plethora of nutrients like Vitamin E and bioactive compounds like polyphenols which help in the nourishment of the skin.
It contains antifungal and anti-bacterial properties and helps in the treatment of eczema, rashes, dermatitis, etc. A study conducted in 2020 showed that massaging premature babies with virgin coconut oil helped strengthen their skin.
Almond oil
Almond oil is an all-weather newborn massage oil. It has a lovely aroma and is rich in Vitamin E, which aids in keeping the baby’s skin soft and supple. The application of almond oil also helps in preventing damage caused by UV radiation. It is also helpful for premature babies as it improves their skin’s thickness and strength.
Sesame oil
This is one of the Ayurvedic options available that make Indian moms very happy. Made from sesame seeds, sesame oil contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help in keeping the baby’s skin healthy, and its light texture makes it suitable for the hot weather too.
This oil penetrates the skin and nourishes it from within. It contains vitamins B, D, and E, which help in healing the rashes on the baby’s skin while moisturizing it.
Castor oil
Castor oil is mainly used for its anecdotal properties. The oil has a thick consistency and is applied before the baby is given a bath. Be careful while applying it to the baby’s face. Do not apply it around their eyes and mouth.
It helps in hair growth in babies, and massaging it around their nails can strengthen them. Massaging warm oil on a baby’s tummy can soothe colic. If your baby has a habit of licking hands, avoid using it, as the oil is toxic for consumption. Also, before using this oil, it is recommended that you consult a pediatrician.
Wrapping Up
Massage is a great way to develop a connection with your baby. Make sure to check with the doctor before using any oil for your baby’s massage. Now you can leverage the goodness of natural baby skin care with Little Rituals. With their exclusive range of top-notch products, your little ones can enjoy and get extensive nourishment with ease! Head to their website and learn more!
