coconut oil a baby best friend

Coconut oil is gaining momentum as a super oil across the globe, due to its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties. Being all natural, not only is it cost effective, but also free from chemicals and other harmful ingredients. So, let’s take advantage of this magic all-cure oil because a lot of issues that your baby might be having can easily be solved with some coconut oil.

1. Cradle cap

Cradle cap is a condition where the scalp of the baby develops dry and patchy skin. It looks similar to dandruff and develops during the early weeks after birth. This condition occurs most at the region of the head that touches the cradle the most. The constant friction of the baby on the pillow or the bed linen can cause cradle cap on their head. It is also known as seborrheic dermatitis or seborrhea. How to use: Massage coconut oil on your baby’s scalp, in particular on the affected area. Leave the oil on for 20 minutes and then brush off the flakes using a baby comb or baby brush. Once the flakes are brushed off, rinse your baby’s hair with lukewarm water.

2. Diaper rash

Diaper rash can occur due to frequent urination and/or diapers. Almost all babies suffer from this at some point, no matter how many precautions you take. Evident from the name, this is a rash that occurs in the baby’s groin area. It is a reddish rash that could spread to other areas if left untreated.Coconut oil acts as a barrier and prevents further irritation. It nourishes and treats the irritated skin. Also, coconut oil does not ruin cloth nappies. How to use: Apply a layer of coconut oil on the affected area after bath time each day and frequently after alternate diaper change. Make sure to massage in the affected area and especially in the folds of the skin.

3. Smoothening hair

After a while, your baby’s soft and silky hair might become dry and unmanageable. This will make it difficult for you to comb and groom your baby. Coconut oil helps smoothen hair and make it healthy. How to use: Wet your baby’s hair and apply a small amount of coconut oil to it. You can also massage coconut oil onto your baby’s hair at night and wash it off in the morning.

4. Bug bites

Babies are more prone to insect bites than adults. As a baby’s skin is very soft, it can result in reddening and swelling. Also, there is a chance that the insect bite can turn into an infection. Coconut oil is very helpful in these situations. It has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It will reduce the risk of an infection and will also help bring down the swelling. How to use: Take some coconut oil and rub it between your palms to warm it up. Then, apply it gently on the affected area. Make sure you do not rub down hard, as that might hurt your baby more.

5. Lice

When a baby gets lice in their hair, it might become difficult to remove it as a lice comb is out of the question. Though a lice comb can be used when your child grows older when they are a baby it might hurt their scalp. Babies also have the added risk of lice going into their ears and eyes if the infestation is large. These bugs cause a lot of discomfort for babies and also a sensation of itchiness. Coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent the spread of lice and also any new infestation. How to use: Using a little apple cider vinegar in water to rinse out your baby’s hair. Let it dry out naturally. Once the vinegar had dried in your baby’s hair, add some coconut oil. If possible, cover your baby’s head with a shower cap. If that is not possible, let the coconut oil stay on for as long as possible.

6. Baby acne

As babies have sensitive skin, it is easy for them to suffer from breakouts that can be red, itchy and swollen. This causes a lot of discomfort for the baby and if the touch the rashes then they can cause infections. Coconut oil eases the situation. How to use: Warm the coconut oil slightly in your palm. Then apply it over your baby’s acne and let it sit for some time. You can wash it off later with warm water or just let it be

7. Body lotion

Coconut oil is the perfect natural moisturizer. It has healthy fats and vitamins that help with dry skin. How to use: Take coconut oil in your palm and dab it onto places that need moisture. Leave it on until the next bath time. Teething pains

8. Teething pains

the baby goes through a lot of pain, this causes irritability and can throw off their feeding cycle. Coconut oil reduces the inflammation that causes pain and discomfort to your baby. It ensures natural relief from pain. How to use: Take a small amount of coconut oil on your fingers and gently dab on your baby’s gums. Apply a little bit of coconut oil on your baby’s teething toys. As it has antibacterial properties, using coconut oil through your baby’s soothers will also ensure that your baby is not at risk of catching any infection.

9. Healing

Using virgin coconut oil can help you effectively treat cuts, burns and bumps. The oil’s antimicrobial property helps in speeding up the healing process. It is advisable to seek medical advice before proceeding with the home remedies. How to use: Take a small amount of coconut oil and apply on the wound.

10. Hardens the baby’s soft spot

A baby’s soft spot or fontanelle is literally very soft. Their soft spot has more number of bones, compared to adults. Applying coconut oil helps in strengthening these bones. However, be gentle while applying! CAUTION: Coconut allergy, though rare, does exist. Make sure your baby doesn’t have it before you use it on them for the first time. The allergy can unnecessarily add to their discomfort and pain.