Natural oils for skincare of newborns and infants

Abstract

V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russian Federation The skin of a newborn is a delicate structure that is the first barrier protecting from exposures. Skin conditions in newborns are common due to adaptation to novel environment. The choice of an adequate moisturizing and skincare product is still an important issue. This paper discusses the structural and functional specificity of the skin of newborns and the role of lipids in the healthy functioning of skin barrier. Inadequate acid mantle and skin microbiome, gradual maturation of immune defense account for the frequent occurrence of infective inflammatory skin disorders, in particular, in skincare defects. Fatty oils are commonly used as emollients or the basis of care products, while essential oils and aromatic compounds are widely applied in perfume and cosmetic industries (including the production of skincare products for babies and toddlers). The effects of natural oils (e.g., olive, sunflower-seed, mustard-seed oil etc.) on skin hydration and permeability and their abil ity to induce inflammation. A single standard for certifying natural cosmetics including skincare products for babies is highlighted. Keywords: skin, newborn, care product, natural oil, essential oil. For citation: Ryumina I.I. Natural oils for skincare of newborns and infants. Russian Journal of Woman and Child Health. 2021;4(2):178–183. DOI: 10.32364/2618-8430-2021-4-2-178-183.