Top Tips for Managing Sensitive Baby Skin: Wipes, Creams, and Care

If you’ve ever gently wiped your baby’s bottom only to find it suddenly red and blotchy five minutes later—you’re not alone. Sensitive baby skin is super common, and it can feel like the tiniest thing (a wipe, a nappy, even the air!) is causing chaos.
But here’s the good news: managing sensitive skin doesn’t have to mean wrapping your baby in cotton wool and panic-Googling every rash. With the right products and a few smart habits, you can keep their delicate skin calm, clean, and comfortable.
This blog is your go-to guide for exactly that. Whether you're battling nappy rash, dry patches, or mystery redness, we’ll walk you through the best tips, wipes, creams, and gentle care routines that actually work (without the guesswork).
Understanding Sensitive Baby Skin (And How to Spot It)
Baby skin isn’t just soft and adorable—it’s also incredibly delicate. In fact, a baby’s skin is about 20–30% thinner than an adult’s, which makes it more absorbent, more reactive, and much more prone to irritation.
According to Healthline, common signs of sensitive baby skin include:
- Redness or rashes that appear out of the blue
- Dry or flaky patches
- Baby suddenly crying or squirming during nappy changes
- Skin that reacts to new products (creams, soaps, wipes—you name it)
- Roughness, especially on the cheeks, chin, or around the nappy area
It’s also worth noting that babies with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies are more likely to have reactive or very sensitive skin. If that sounds familiar, you’re not imagining things—your baby may simply need a little extra TLC.
Mustela explains that “very sensitive” baby skin often overreacts to daily stressors like cold weather, hard water, or even friction from clothing. The good news? With the right skincare routine and gentle products, most sensitive skin flare-ups are totally manageable at home.
What’s Irritating Your Baby’s Skin? (It’s Not Just the Nappies)
If you’ve ever wondered “Why is my baby’s skin flaring up again?”—you’re not alone. Sensitive skin in babies can be triggered by a bunch of everyday things that wouldn’t even phase an adult.
Here are some of the most common culprits to watch out for:
1. Friction from clothing or nappies
Tight waistbands, scratchy tags, or even too much rubbing from nappies can cause chafing and irritation—especially in warmer weather.
2. Harsh soaps and fragrances
Some soaps, shampoos, laundry detergents, and even baby wipes contain artificial fragrances, dyes, or alcohol that dry out or inflame baby skin. According to Healthline, babies with sensitive skin should stick to fragrance-free, gentle formulations.
3. Changes in temperature or humidity
Hot weather, cold air, or dry indoor heating can zap the moisture right out of your baby’s skin. Mustela notes that sensitive skin is particularly reactive to climate shifts and needs more protection during seasonal changes.
4. Skincare overload
Believe it or not, too many products can be a problem. Layering creams, oils, and powders may clog pores or cause build-up, leading to rashes or breakouts.
5. Food and drool
Even the cutest teething drool can irritate your baby’s chin and cheeks. Citrus, tomato-based foods, or messy snacks can also cause contact dermatitis if left on the skin too long.
Keeping track of these triggers can help you minimise flare-ups and keep your baby more comfortable day to day. Next up: let’s talk baby wipes—what’s actually safe to use?
Choosing Baby Wipes That Actually Care for Sensitive Skin
Not all wipes are created equal—especially when your baby’s skin is feeling a bit fussy. Whether you’re tackling a nappy change, messy meal, or mystery face goo, the right baby wipes can calm the skin and make clean-up less of a chore.
Here are our top picks for gentle, effective baby wipes:
1. Huggies Baby Wipes Unscented
Because your baby’s skin deserves more than just “clean.”
Whether you’re changing nappies at 3am or cleaning up a post-snack disaster, these wipes are your reliable go-to. You won’t have to second-guess what’s touching your baby’s sensitive skin—Huggies has kept it pure, gentle, and simple. No overpowering scent, no unnecessary extras—just a clean that feels safe every time.
Why your baby’s skin will love it:
- Gentle enough for newborns
- No fragrance, alcohol, or nasties
- Infused with aloe and vitamin E to soothe and protect
- Thick and soft for fuss-free wiping
Best for:
Everyday changes, messy moments, and little ones with sensitive or rash-prone skin.
2. TENA Plastic-Free Wet Wipes
Less waste, more comfort—with a wipe that actually holds up.
These aren’t your average baby wipes. TENA's biodegradable wipes give you that perfect balance between gentle care and serious clean-up power. Ideal for families who want to reduce their plastic use without sacrificing softness or quality. Whether it’s bottoms, hands, or faces—these wipes make clean-ups simpler, quicker, and a whole lot kinder.
Why your baby’s skin will love it:
- Plant-based, biodegradable fibres
- Alcohol-free and pH-balanced
- Big enough to handle any mess
- Dermatologist-approved for sensitive skin
Best for:
Eco-conscious parents, busy carers, and bigger clean-up jobs (hello, blowouts).
3. Reynard Dry Baby Wipes
When your baby’s skin says “less, please,” these wipes say “no problem.”
If your little one reacts to everything, this is your blank canvas. Reynard Dry Wipes are perfect for customising your routine—just add warm water or your favourite gentle cleanser. No preservatives, no additives—just pure, soft cloth that gives you control and your baby comfort.
Why your baby’s skin will love it:
- No chemicals, no preservatives—just soft, breathable cloth
- Use dry or wet depending on what your bub needs
- Thick and gentle enough for delicate areas
- Kind to irritated or allergy-prone skin
Best for:
Parents managing eczema, allergies, or sensitive-skin flare-ups who want a flexible, ultra-gentle option.
Why Skincare Isn’t Just “Nice to Have” for Babies
So, you’ve picked out the perfect wipes (unscented, gentle, and kind to tiny tushies—well done, you). But baby skin care doesn’t end there. Wipes are just the first step in protecting your little one’s sensitive skin from irritation, dryness, and flare-ups.
That’s because baby skin—especially in newborns—isn’t quite ready to handle the world yet. It’s thinner, more delicate, and dries out faster than adult skin. According to the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, your baby’s skin barrier is still developing, which makes it more vulnerable to rashes, allergies, and moisture loss. And WebMD notes that even everyday things like soaps, weather, and clothing can cause unexpected irritation.
That’s where daily skincare steps in—not as a luxury, but as a necessity.
✔️ It helps lock in moisture and prevent dry patches
✔️ It soothes irritation from things like heat rash and dribble rash
✔️ It acts as a gentle barrier against bacteria and allergens
✔️ And most importantly, it keeps your baby comfy (and less cranky) from morning to night
Whether you’re dealing with mild eczema, flaky cheeks, or just want to keep their skin soft enough to make clouds jealous, daily skincare is the quiet hero of baby health. Let’s dive into how to do it right.
Gentle Skincare Routine for Sensitive Baby Skin
Let’s face it: babies don’t come with an instruction manual—but if they did, “handle with care” would be right on the cover. When it comes to skincare, less is more, and consistency is everything. Here’s how to create a soothing routine that protects sensitive skin without overdoing it:
1. Bath Time = Soothing Time (Not Scrub-a-thon)
Skip the daily bubble baths. According to the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, babies only need a quick, lukewarm bath a few times a week using plain water or a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Too much bathing can strip their skin of natural oils and leave it dry or irritated.
Tip: Use a soft cloth and gently pat—not scrub—when washing your baby. Make it calm and relaxing, not a wrestling match.
2. Pat Dry, Don’t Rub
After the bath, use a clean towel to softly pat your baby’s skin dry. Rubbing can irritate their sensitive skin, especially in areas like the neck folds, underarms, and behind the knees.
3. Moisturise Right Away
Apply a baby-friendly moisturiser while their skin is still a little damp. This helps lock in moisture and keeps their skin soft and hydrated throughout the day.
Look for creams that are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and designed for sensitive skin.
4. Don’t Overdo the Products
Stick to the basics: gentle cleanser, moisturiser, and a barrier cream for nappy changes. According to WebMD, using too many products (even “natural” ones) can backfire and irritate your baby’s delicate skin.
5. Spot Check and Adjust
Keep an eye on how your baby’s skin reacts. If you notice any redness, bumps, or dryness, it could be time to tweak the routine or switch to an even gentler product. And of course, if something looks off or isn’t improving—always check with your healthcare provider.
Trusted by Parents, Loved by Delicate Skin: Meet the QV Baby Range
When it comes to baby skincare, simpler is better—and QV Baby gets it just right. Designed with sensitive skin in mind, these gentle everyday essentials cleanse, soothe, and moisturise without the fuss (or the fragrance). Whether you’re building a new routine or looking to swap out products that just aren’t cutting it, this lineup is made to support soft, happy skin from head to tiny toes.
1. QV Baby Moisturising Cream
Your new nappy bag MVP and nursery shelf essential. Whether it’s dry patches, post-bath hydration, or daily nourishment, this cream is like a cuddle in a bottle—thick, rich, and made to love baby-soft skin just the way it is.
Why your baby’s skin will love it:
- Locks in moisture for hours without feeling greasy
- Fragrance-free and dermatologically tested for peace of mind
- Soothes flakiness and dry spots without irritation
Best for:
Dry, delicate skin that needs all-day hydration without fuss.
Also available in a 250g Tub.
2. QV Baby Bath Oil
For bathtime without the tears (or the dry skin aftermath). This bath oil turns regular water into a silky, soothing soak that leaves skin soft and calm. No soap. No sting. Just happy splashes.
Why your baby’s skin will love it:
- Nourishes while cleansing—no need to scrub
- Gentle enough for newborns and sensitive skin warriors
- Adds moisture back into the bathwater, not just down the drain
Best for:
Babies with dry, itchy, or eczema-prone skin who still love their bath time.
Also available in a 250ml Bottle!
3. QV Baby Gentle Wash
Because your baby’s skin doesn’t need bells and whistles—just a little kindness. This ultra-gentle cleanser gets them squeaky clean without drying them out. Perfect for everyday use, especially in those tricky folds and rolls.
Why your baby’s skin will love it:
- Cleans without stripping away natural oils
- Free from soap, colour, and fragrance (AKA no nasty surprises)
- A calming alternative to harsh commercial baby washes
Best for:
Daily bath-time without the drama—especially for eczema or sensitive skin types.
4. QV Baby 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner
Short on time? This clever combo gets the job done in one go. Designed for soft baby hair and even softer scalps, this 2-in-1 is fuss-free and ultra-gentle from root to rinse.
Why your baby’s scalp will love it:
- Makes hair manageable, soft, and tangle-free
- Soap-free and non-irritating to little eyes and scalps
- Leaves no residue, just fluffy goodness
Best for:
Parents who want to keep bath time short and sweet—with zero tears over shampoo.
Visit Us in Epping for Expert Advice and Baby-Safe Essentials
Not sure which product is right for your baby’s skin? Pop into our Platinum Health Supply store in Epping, Victoria, and see our full baby care range up close. You’ll find trusted brands like QV Baby, gentle wipes, skin-loving creams, and other essentials that make bath time, nappy changes, and cuddle sessions worry-free.
Our friendly team is here to help you find the right products for your little one’s needs, whether you're tackling dry patches, bath time meltdowns, or nappy rash flare-ups.
📍 Find us at Unit 2/51 Trafalgar Road, Epping VIC 3076
🕘 Store Hours: Monday – Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Can’t make it in person? No worries—we offer fast Australia-wide shipping through our online store. Because every baby deserves soft, healthy skin, no matter where you are.
Happy Skin, Happy Baby
Caring for your baby’s sensitive skin doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little know-how and the right gentle products on hand, you can keep irritation, dryness, and rashes at bay—so your little one stays happy, comfy, and giggle-ready.
From soft wipes to nourishing creams, Platinum Health Supply has everything you need to build a skin care routine that’s safe, soothing, and tailored to baby’s needs.
Explore our baby care essentials online or visit us in Epping for expert guidance and trusted products.
Because your baby deserves nothing but the gentlest care.
A Gentle Reminder
At Platinum Health Supply, we’re here to support you with trusted products and helpful information—but we’re not a medical clinic or healthcare provider. The advice in this blog is intended to guide and inform, not to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical conditions. Every baby is unique, and what works wonderfully for one might not be right for another.
Before introducing new skincare products or routines, we strongly recommend speaking with your child’s GP, paediatrician, or healthcare provider—especially if your little one has existing sensitivities, allergies, or a medical condition.
While we do our best to recommend gentle, high-quality products, Platinum Health Supply does not accept responsibility for any adverse reactions or outcomes resulting from the use of products mentioned in this article. Your baby’s safety and wellbeing are always the priority, so when in doubt—check with a medical professional.
Thanks for trusting us to be part of your care journey.