Decisions, decisions! From the moment you get pregnant till your kid goes off to college, every new day brings a new decision you must take to ensure the overall health and well-being of your little one. However, instead of looking that far into the decisions of the future, let’s focus on decisions of the NOW. Namely, choosing the right baby massage oil between coconut, almond, and sesame for your baby. If you are confused too, keep reading. Your baby’s skin type holds the answer.
The Science Behind Selecting a Baby Massage Oil
Though picking up a baby massage oil was as easy as visiting your local supermarket? Think again. There’s a method to picking the best oil for your toddler and that involves paying attention to the oil’s oleic acid to linoleic acid ratio:
- Oleic Acid: Also known as Omega-9, it’s a rather heavy fatty acid type, high concentrations of which can harm your baby’s skin barrier if it’s not balanced with linoleic acid. Oils containing dense concentrations of oleic acid may increase dryness or eczema.
- Linoleic Acid: Also known as Omega-6, oils with linoleic acid help in the formation of a stronger skin barrier while preventing moisture loss and soothing any kind of irritation your baby may experience.
While it might seem on the surface that oleic acid serves no purpose, it actually does and is a common content of many oils. You will see what we’re talking about very soon.
Coconut Oil Vs Almond Oil Vs Sesame Oil for Baby Massage
Here is how each of these oils stack up against each other. Read through carefully and you might just find the best among the three oils for your baby:
Coconut Oil: The Anti-Bacterial Hydrator
Cold-pressed virgin Coconut Oil is actually one of the most well-known and widely used emollients out there! This all-natural oil also offers amazing antifungal and antimicrobial properties, making it the perfect home remedy for minor skin infections, if your doctor gives the say-so, of course!
That said, studies have consistently shown that regular use of virgin Coconut Oil can actually improve your baby’s skin barrier and provide them with consistent hydration. Exactly what they need to continue having baby-soft skin!
Best For: Babies with normal to dry skin, typically living in hot or humid climates and prone to getting minor skin infections.
Sweet Almond Oil: The Ultimate Skin Barrier Repair Specialist
Sweet Almond Oil is commonly found in most leading oils available in India – from Deyga’s and The Moms Co.’s oils to AreoVeda’s Baby Massage Oil, and there’s a reason for that. This traditionally used massage oil is a rich source of oleic acid, linoleic acid and vitamin E – skin-friendly ingredients that not only moisturise your baby’s skin but also help in its repair and rejuvenation.
Highly absorbable, lightweight and non-comedogenic, Sweet Almond Oil strengthens your baby’s skin barrier without jamming their pores. Plus, it is quite effective in reducing issues such as scaling and itching, which can easily annoy your tiny tot. Its vitamin E content is actually responsible for its skin-reparing properties.
Best For: Babies with dry or sensitive skin who need lightweight yet deep nourishment in dryer climates.
Sesame Oil: Nature’s Best Body Warmer
A perfect blend of both oleic and linoleic acids, Sesame Oil is also rich in antioxidants. This Ayurvedic infant care staple is, in fact, widely used to warm your baby’s body in the cold winter months. Capable of penetrating deep into the layers of your baby’s skin, Sesame Oil offers a ton of benefits that extend beyond warming.
As per a recent study, regular massages with Sesame Oil helps your baby in developing a healthy body weight while improving their blood circulation. Plus, it can also improve their sleep cycle, promoting deeply relaxed states that lull them into quiet slumber. All in all, it’s a great oil to add to your baby’s daily massage routine.
Best For: Perfect for use in cold winter months on babies with normal skin and no irritations.
Conclusion
Now you can see that each oil actually serves its own purpose and benefits and is suitable for babies with specific skin types and issues. To be honest though, if your doctor allows, you can switch things up and use each of these oils when the need arises. For example, you could use Sweet Almond Oil in summers, Sesame Oil in winters, and Coconut Oil any time your baby develops a minor rash. That way, your baby can enjoy the benefits of all three!
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