5 Myths About Newborn Massage

Massaging your baby is one of the most important things when it comes to baby care. It is important for those initial months when your baby’s growth is rapid and there is some level of fatigue on the muscles as the baby does not move around much. However, along with the facts and benefits, there are a lot of myths about newborn massage. Here we are debunking the top five common myths about baby massage.

Common Myths About Baby Massage

BabyChakra

Nourishing Baby Massage Oil

₹ 299

Add To Bag

1. Myth: Do a Rough Massage

Fact: If your baby starts crying or is uncomfortable while you’re massaging him, it’s an indication to stop. Massages should ease your baby and hence it may be time for you to stop or change the way you’re massaging him. A very rough massage can injure your baby and be painful if you aren’t careful. Remember to be gentle but firm as your baby’s bones and muscles are still very soft and need time to develop.

2. Myth: Start Baby Massage At The Earliest

Fact: One of the most common myths about massaging newborns is that you should start the massage as soon as you can after the baby’s birth. You should wait for at least 2 -3 weeks before you begin massaging your baby. Your baby’s skin is excessively sensitive after birth and can make massage an uncomfortable activity. It is also one of the main reasons why babies develop acne-like eruptions on their skin and face their extra-sensitive skin.

3. Myth: Certain Massage Oils Can Make The Baby Fairer

Fact: No homemade or store-bought oil will ever lighten a baby’s skin. Skin colour is genetic and cannot be changed by using by-products. It’s impossible to alter someone’s DNA just through a massage.

4. Myth: Use Oil All Over a Baby’s Body

Fact: While some cultures encourage the use of various oils on all surfaces of the baby, some areas should be avoided. Applying oil to the baby’s nose and ears can be harmful and cause fungal infections if your baby is extra sensitive. You should also avoid putting massage products in a baby’s eyes as there is carbon content present in many oils. Using excess oil in a baby’s navel is considered to be unhygienic by most experts and should be avoided.

5. Myth: Appropriate Massage Strokes Can Reshape the Nose or Head 

Fact: Babies are born with bones and features that change a lot within the first year. They are predestined to take a certain shape, which usually depends on the genes. Hence, rubbing the baby’s nose a certain way, or pressing the head a bit too much, will make it change the shape. It will ultimately turn out as its genes guide it to be.

If you thought one of these myths about massaging newborns to be true, hope these facts helped you debunk them. Your baby needs to be comfortable and safe when you are massaging him/her. Hence, selecting the right oil along with safe techniques is essential.

Cover image credit – Canva