Dry brushing, a practice that involves using a soft brush to gently massage the skin, has been traditionally associated with adult skincare routines. However, its application in newborns and infants is gaining attention for potential benefits.
What is Dry Brushing?
Dry brushing for newborns and infants involves using a very soft, natural-bristle brush to gently stroke the skin. This practice is typically performed before bathing and is adapted to be much gentler than the dry brushing routine used by adults.
Benefits of Dry Brushing for Newborns and Infants
The purported benefits of dry brushing in young children include:
- Stimulation of the Lymphatic System: The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in immunity and the elimination of toxins. Dry brushing is believed to stimulate lymph flow, which could potentially support the immature immune system of infants[11].
- Skin Exfoliation: Gently brushing the skin can help remove dead skin cells, potentially reducing the risk of cradle cap, a common condition in infants characterized by scaly patches on the scalp[1][5].
- Sensory Stimulation: The act of brushing provides sensory input that can be soothing and may contribute to the sensory development of infants[2].
- Improved Circulation: The gentle strokes of dry brushing are thought to enhance blood circulation to the skin’s surface, promoting skin health and vitality[11].
Strategies for Dry Brushing in Newborns and Infants
When considering dry brushing for infants, the following strategies are recommended:
- Use the Right Brush: Select a brush with ultra-soft bristles designed specifically for babies’ delicate skin[1].
- Be Gentle: Infants’ skin is sensitive, so it’s important to apply very light pressure[1][5].
- Avoid Sensitive Areas: Skip areas of the skin that are irritated, such as rashes or eczema[5].
- Frequency: The practice can be done once a week or as needed, depending on the baby’s skin condition and tolerance[1].
- Consult Healthcare Providers: Before starting any new skincare routine with an infant, it’s advisable to consult with a pediatrician, especially if the child has skin conditions or health concerns[5].
In conclusion, dry brushing is a practice with potential benefits for newborns and infants, such as aiding in exfoliation and providing sensory stimulation. Parents and caregivers should consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating dry brushing into their infant’s care routine.
Citations:
[1] https://www.mysticnaturalsstore.com/product/gentle-dry-brush-for-body-gentle-hair-brush-for-babies/
[2] https://healthykitchenhappylife.com/2019/06/01/dry-brushing-for-children/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6930520/
[4] https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/toothbrushing-children
[5] https://www.devotedmamas.com/post/two-at-home-postpartum-rituals-to-speed-up-your-postpartum-healing
[6] https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/oral-health/advocate-newsletters-visualizations/oral-health-early-childhood-oral-health-starter-kit.html
[7] https://www.amazon.com/Silicone-Scrubbers-Exfoliator-SkinSoother-Essential/dp/B08HQVR1GS
[8] https://www.emmasdiary.co.uk/baby/baby-health-and-illnesses/baby-massage
[9] https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/oral-health/Pages/Brushing-Up-on-Oral-Health-Never-Too-Early-to-Start.aspx
[10] https://www.pipettebaby.com/products/dry-brush
[11] https://naturalbabymama.com/benefits-dry-brushing/
[12] https://raisingchildren.net.au/babies/health-daily-care/dental-care/dental-care-babies
[13] https://www.healthline.com/health/baby/how-to-clean-baby-tongue
[14] https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/pregnancy-parenting/parenting-babies-0-12-months/newborns/importance-skin-skin-contact
[15] https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/pregnancy-parenting/parenting-babies-0-12-months/baby-growth-and-development/babies-physical
[16] https://truebytina.com/blogs/blog/why-brushing-your-babys-hair-should-be-a-daily-routine
[17] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29055852/
[18] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0266613817303546
[19] https://weanish.com/when-do-i-start-brushing-my-babys-teeth/
[20] https://www.amazon.com/Silicone-Scrubbers-Exfoliator-SkinSoother-Essential/dp/B0967JQ572
Join our community
Join the Motheroo Montessori community and receive exclusive insights, practical tips, and inspiring stories directly to your inbox.
