Baby Skin Basics: Do's and Don't's
"Often, we bath our children too often..."
What are the hidden dangers for my baby's skin? Are there common warning signs for skin problems among kids?
This week we discuss the red flags and warning signs for common skin problems.
Sometimes, over the counter treatment is sufficient, but occasionally we need a professional's help. How do we know when a minor skin problem could turn into a serious health concern?
Dr Nivana Ramlachan (@drnivana) is our special guest in studio this week. She is one of South Africa's top dermatologists, award winning and internationally acclaimed. With her passion for good skin, and helping children, she joins our Podcast with valuable advice.
Brought to you by Epi-Max Baby & Junior - Our Family, for Your Family. Sponsored by Curaprox and supported by Jacaranda FM.
ABOUT DR NIVANA RAMLACHAN
Dr Nivana Ramlachan is a specialist dermatologist in both medical and procedural dermatology. Born and raised in Durban, she completed her MBChB in 1998 before qualifying as a dermatologist (FCDerm SA) in 2005.
She established her private practice in Pretoria in 2005. While she manages the full spectrum of dermatological conditions, her practice has a strong focus on medical dermatology, skin cancer management, and advanced procedural dermatology.
Her passion for dermatologic surgery was inspired after attending a lecture by Lawrence Field in 2011. She subsequently completed the Hugh Greenways Annual Superficial Anatomy and Cutaneous Surgery Course in 2013 and was awarded the ASDS International Mohs Micrographic Surgery Fellowship in 2018, making Dr Ramlachan South Africa's first female dermatologist practising Mohs micrographic surgery.
Dr Ramlachan is now part of the Mohs Surgery Unit at Skin Matters, but has her own independent Specialist Dermatology practice in Equestria and at the Club Surgical Center in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Podcast Transcript
Prefer to read instead? Here’s the full transcript from this episode of the Baby Brunch Podcast.
Short on time? Scroll to the key takeaways below.
HOST
Welcome to another Baby Brunch podcast.
Today, we’re talking all things skin — when babies, children, teens, and adults should see a dermatologist, how to properly care for our skin, and how to build healthy skincare habits from an early age.
Joining us today is Dr Nivana Ramlachan, specialist dermatologist in both medical and procedural dermatology.
Doctor, thank you so much for joining us.
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Thank you so much for having me. It’s truly a pleasure to be here.
HOST
Recently, you were recognised as the Best Dermatologist in the Best of Pretoria Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. That’s an incredible achievement.
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Thank you.
That award was especially meaningful because it came from my patients. As doctors, we work hard every day, but recognition like that — directly from the people you help — is deeply touching.
After 20 years in dermatology, it was something I never expected, and I’m incredibly grateful.
HOST
One thing that stood out to me about your practice is how much heart there is behind your work.
Can you give us an idea of what a dermatologist actually does on a daily basis?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
I practice both general and procedural dermatology, with a special interest in skin cancer surgery and aesthetic dermatology.
A large part of my work involves treating skin cancers using Mohs micrographic surgery — a specialised technique with very high cure rates.
Skin cancer is increasing significantly worldwide, and awareness is incredibly important because if caught early, many of these cancers are completely curable.
I also work in procedural dermatology, helping patients feel confident and healthy in their skin through safe and natural treatments.
For me, dermatology is about both health and empowerment.
HOST
You’re also a mom — and I think it’s important for working moms listening to hear this.
We’re proud of you.
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Thank you.
I have three children, and while my work is important, my family is everything.
When I was younger, I carried a lot of guilt trying to balance work and motherhood. But over time, I realised something important — our children see how hard we work, and they’re proud of us too.
To all working moms: don’t carry the guilt. You can care for your family and still pursue your purpose.
HOST
Everybody knows they should see a dentist regularly… but should we be seeing a dermatologist annually too?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
That depends on age and skin concerns.
For children, regular dermatologist visits are usually unnecessary unless there’s a skin condition like eczema or severe dermatitis.
As children become teenagers, awareness becomes more important — especially regarding acne, mole checks, and skin health.
By your 30s and 40s, regular skin screenings become increasingly important because skin cancer risk rises with age.
Ideally, you should have a dermatologist who understands your skin type and monitors changes over time.
HOST
Do you think sunscreen is underestimated?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Absolutely.
Photo-protection is one of the most important things parents can do for their children.
The sun is beneficial in many ways, but it also causes damage — including premature ageing and skin cancer.
For children older than six months, I recommend sunscreen together with hats and protective clothing.
In younger children, mineral sunscreens are generally preferred because they act as physical blockers.
The challenge is consistency. Many people say they use sunscreen — but they don’t use it daily.
HOST
When would a baby actually need to see a dermatologist?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Most babies will first be seen by a paediatrician or general practitioner.
Many newborn skin conditions resolve naturally within the first few months.
A dermatologist usually becomes involved if there’s persistent eczema, severe dermatitis, neonatal acne, or a disrupted skin barrier that isn’t improving with standard treatment.
It’s really about having a healthcare team supporting your child.
HOST
What advice would you give parents who want to help their children build healthy skin habits for life?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Two major things:
Protect the skin barrier
Protect the skin from UV damage
Healthy skin starts with simple routines:
Gentle cleansers
Consistent moisturising
Avoiding harsh fragrances or irritants
Daily sun protection
Parents often feel overwhelmed by products, but for children especially, simplicity is best.
HOST
Let’s talk about the first few days of a baby’s life.
Can you give us some dos and don’ts for newborn skin care?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
The first few days are incredibly important because a newborn’s skin is transitioning from the womb into the outside world.
The skin barrier is still developing, so we want to protect and support it.
Some important tips:
Avoid harsh soaps
Use gentle moisturisers
Dress babies in soft cotton clothing
Avoid overheating
Don’t bathe newborns too frequently
The goal is to support the baby’s natural skin barrier and microbiome.
HOST
Parents often panic and immediately turn to Google when they see a rash.
How dangerous is that?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Google can be helpful for information — but not for diagnosis.
People often arrive convinced they know what the condition is, only to discover the diagnosis is completely different.
Incorrect treatment can sometimes make things worse.
It’s important to first get the correct diagnosis from a doctor or dermatologist before treating the condition.
HOST
Okay doctor — quick-fire quiz time.
Baby has a rash. What do we do?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
That depends on the type and location of the rash.
If it’s dry, itchy, and appears on the cheeks or body folds, think eczema.
If it’s in the nappy area, it could be irritant dermatitis.
The most common rash I see in children is atopic eczema.
HOST
Teenager with a zit. Do we put toothpaste on it?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
No!
Toothpaste can irritate the skin further.
For mild acne, over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide can help.
But if acne becomes moderate or severe, it’s important to see a doctor or dermatologist early to prevent scarring.
HOST
Ingrown hair in dad’s beard?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
That’s often folliculitis.
Proper shaving techniques are important:
Don’t shave too closely
Use good moisturisers
Be especially careful with thick or curly hair types
HOST
What about laser hair removal for tweens?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Laser hair removal can be effective, but it’s expensive and not without risks.
For younger patients, gentle shaving is often a better starting point.
The best option depends on:
Skin type
Hair type
Risk of ingrown hairs
Treatment should always be individualised.
HOST
What exactly is vernix, and lanugo?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Lanugo is the fine hair babies are often born with.
Vernix is the creamy white coating on newborn skin.
Both are protective.
Vernix helps:
Protect the skin in utero
Prevent heat loss
Support the skin barrier
Provide antimicrobial protection
It’s actually very beneficial and should not be rushed off immediately after birth.
HOST
So when should baby’s first bath happen?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Current recommendations suggest delaying the first bath for at least six hours — ideally closer to 12–24 hours after birth.
That gives the skin barrier time to mature naturally.
After bathing, moisturising becomes very important to help maintain skin barrier function.
HOST
What advice would you give working moms who still struggle with guilt?
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Don’t carry the guilt.
You’re doing your best for your children and your family.
One thing I’ve realised is that many parents spend so much time caring for everyone else that they neglect themselves.
Take care of yourself too — mentally and physically.
When you care for yourself, you’re better able to care for your family.
And remember: your children notice your love, your effort, and your presence.
HOST
Doctor, it has been wonderful having you on Baby Brunch.
DR Nivana Ramlachan
Thank you so much.
(Transcript edited for clarity and readability)
Key Takeaways
Healthy skin habits start early
Gentle skincare routines and sun protection in childhood can have lifelong benefits.Skin cancer awareness is incredibly important
Skin cancer is increasing globally, but early detection can lead to excellent outcomes.Sunscreen is essential — especially for children
Daily sun protection, hats, and protective clothing all play an important role in preventing long-term skin damage.Children don’t always need regular dermatologist visits
Most skin concerns can first be assessed by a GP or paediatrician, with dermatologists stepping in when specialised care is needed.The skin barrier is key to healthy skin
Protecting the skin barrier through gentle products and moisturising is especially important in babies and children.Simple skincare is often best
Avoid harsh products, strong fragrances, and too many “active” ingredients in young skin.Google should not replace professional diagnosis
Online information can be helpful, but self-diagnosing skin conditions can sometimes lead to harmful treatment choices.Acne should be treated early when needed
Severe acne can lead to both physical scarring and emotional distress if left untreated.Vernix and lanugo are normal and beneficial
The white coating and fine hair on newborns serve protective functions and are part of healthy newborn development.Working moms should let go of guilt
Caring for yourself is part of caring for your family — and children benefit from seeing parents pursue meaningful work and balance.