It's normal for infants to develop small patches of dry skin in the first few weeks after birth.  In general, babies have thinner, more delicate skin than adults do. Because of this, their skin may lose moisture more easily, especially if they have atopic dermatitis.1 Here are a few tips to help manage baby’s dry skin:2 Limit bath time. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests limiting bath time to less than 10 minutes in lukewarm water.  Use soap-free cleansers.  Non-soap cleansers are less drying and highly recommended for baby’s delicate skin. Choose the right moisturizer.  Moisturizers come in lotions, which tend to be thinner and lighter, and creams and balms, which are thicker, making them ideal for dry skin. Appropriately formulated moisturizers can preserve protect and enhance the skin barrier by supplying hydration and lipids and by helping to prevent water loss.1 Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing.  Gently pat dry and smooth on lotion while your baby’s skin is still damp to seal in needed moisture. Use a moisturizer at least once daily, even when skin is not irritated. Consistent daily use can help prevent dry skin, and provide lasting benefits to skin barrier function and overall skin condition.1   References: Avoiding Dry Winter Skin in Babies and Toddlers - American Academy of Pediatrics Avoiding Dry Winter Skin in Babies and Toddlers - HealthyChildren.org Accessed 9.12.22 Ilnytska O, Kaur S, Chon S, Reynertson KA, Nebus J, Garay M, Mahmood K, Southall MD. Colloidal Oatmeal (Avena Sativa) Improves Skin Barrier Through Multi-Therapy Activity. J Drugs Dermatol. 2016 Jun 1;15(6):684-90. PMID: 27272074.