Baby Massage Oils: Which One is Good for Your Child?

We’ve all heard that massaging a baby with oil is good for their development. . From your grandmother to your doctor to an advertisement on TV will tell you to invest time in this activity. But, have you ever thought about how these oils help? And which oil is most suitable for your baby’s sensitive skin? If yes, then read on to know more.

Benefits Of Massaging Your Baby with Oil

Mothers have been massaging their infants for generations and have seen the various benefits of oil massage for a newborn baby. While it promotes bonding with your baby, it also helps activate various senses. The sense of touch is said to develop first in the womb. It is also the most developed sense at birth. Touch provides a sense of belonging, acceptance, and trust. It also releases hormones, especially oxytocin which is the ‘love hormone’.

Which Oils Are Best For Your Baby’s Massage?

There are many types of oils that people will recommend you use for your baby while giving her a massage. But how is one to know which is the most beneficial? While all oils have benefits that are unique to them, you must take care to use specific oils based on the weather.

Oils Good For Your Baby’s Massage in Summer

1. Coconut Oil

This oil is one of the best ones to use for the summer. It is said to have a cooling effect and is also light in texture and easily absorbed. Being anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, you can be rest assured that coconut oil for baby massage is great for the health of your baby’s skin.

2. Sesame Oil

Considered as a valuable ingredient by Ayurveda, this oil is very light and will keep your baby comfortable. This is considered the best baby massage oil for strong bones.

Oils Good For Your Baby Massage in Winter

3. Mustard Oil

This oil is considered one of the best oils during cold winter months. Use this oil with other carrier oils. In north India, many people recommend heating the oil with garlic, fenugreek seeds, and carom seed and then using the oil after it has cooled down.

4. Olive Oil

This oil is neutral and is an extremely popular choice amongst many mothers. However, remember to not use the oil if your baby has any prior skin condition.

Almond oil can be used in any month of the year and is rich in vitamin E. It smells great and will make your baby’s skin soft and supple. We recommend that you use pure almond oil for baby’s massage. While sunflower oil has been used traditionally, recent studies have shown that sunflower oil for baby massage can be linked to cases of eczema. To reap maximum benefits, use specially formulated baby massage sunflower oil.

Which Massage Oil Can Be Used for Baby With Dry and Sensitive Skin?

Any vegetable oil that is rich in polyunsaturated oils is the best oil for baby skin. These oils have a high content of linoleic acid which is great for your baby. . Some vegetable oils that fit this bill include:

5. Chamomile Oil

This oil is great if your baby has sensitive skin or already has some skin rashes or other breakouts. This could specially help your baby if she has colic and help her get good sleep.

6. Tea Tree Oil

This natural oil is well known for its high antiseptic properties. You can mix a few drops of this essential oil into any base carrier oil and use it on your baby’s skin.

7. Calendula Oil

This is also an essential oil that can have a soothing effect on your baby’s skin and has a mild smell that will not irritate your child’s nose.

8. Castor Oil

This oil is great for using just before giving a bath to your baby. It can also be used to treat dry hair and nails.

No matter which oil you choose to use, you must do a sensitivity test first. Apply a small amount of oil onto a small batch on your baby’s skin. If you do not see a reaction in the next 3 hours, then you can safely use that oil.

How to Decide on the Right Oil for Baby’s Massage?

There are some tips that you can follow before you choose the oil for your baby’s massage.

1. Before you listen to any advice available out there, talk to your doctor for advice regarding the best oil for your baby’s massage.

2. Use products that are only made with special baby formulation. Using adult products is not advisable as they can be too strong for delicate skin and can cause harm.

3. Do not use oils that have any strong fragrance. Choose only food grade oils as they do not harm the baby even if they are swallowed.

4. If you are using essential oils, ensure that they are diluted enough. You must also get a clearance from your doctor regarding the carrier oil.

5. You must avoid mineral oils.

Which Oils are Bad for Baby’s Skin?

If your baby has eczema or dry or sensitive skin, you must avoid using mustard oil, clarified butter, or olive oil. These oils are high in a substance called oleic acid. This substance is said to make the top layers of your baby’s skin more permeable. This, in turn, makes the skin drier.

Tips To Keep in Mind While Massaging Your Baby With Oil

Here are a few things you may keep in mind while giving a massage to your baby with oil.

• Make sure you time the massage well. Most babies fall asleep soon after a massage, so you need to ensure that it fits well into her sleep cycle.

• Massage your baby only when she is up to it and do not force it.

• When using essential oils, make sure that it is diluted enough.

• Do not apply too much pressure while massaging your baby. Remember, it is more to do with sharing the act of touch.

• Test the temperature of the oil before using it. It shouldn’t be too cold or hot.

• Ensure that your hands are warmed up and are clean and dry.

• Use cold-press oils as these are the most natural form of oil. They are not refined and do not have any additives.

• Take advice from a trusted elder on the proper technique for massaging your baby. This is knowledge that is passed on from generation to generation, and it is highly valuable.

• Do not buy large packs of these oils as the chances of it turning rancid are higher.

• Make sure to check the expiration date on the oil before buying it.

There are many benefits of massaging your baby with oil. One of the best is that it is an unbeatable bonding experience with your baby. Babies crave their mother’s touch and this is the perfect opportunity to increase the health and development of your baby. Use oils according to the season and do not hesitate to talk to your doctor about any concerns you have.

FAQs

1. Can I apply oil on my baby in hot and humid weather?

You can use oil in hot and humid weather provided it is used before bath time and rinsed off properly after. Therefore, you must ensure you use oils that are of the varietyused before bathing. You must ensure that you give your baby a thorough bath after the massage to ensure that she is comfortable in the weather.

2. Should the baby be oiled before or after bath?

In India, the traditional oil massage for babies is usually followed by a bath. This is especially true for heavier oils that will leave a thick residue on your baby’s skin. However, if your baby has dry skin it might be better to use special formulation oil that will lock the moisture into your baby’s skin.

Massaging your baby with oil is one of the oldest practices in India. It promotes healthy growth and bonding with your baby. Make sure you use pure oil as your baby’s skin is very delicate. Just to be sure, get approvals from your doctor regarding the oil you choose.