A Survey on Neonatal and Infant Skincare: Indian Dermatologists, Pediatricians and Cosmetologists' Perspective on Product Prescription Pattern and Parents’ Awareness

Objective: Newborn skin is incredibly delicate and vulnerable to issues like dermatitis and infections, which are prevalent in infants in India. To ensure optimal care and results, parents and caregivers must know about infant skincare products and implement a targeted and comprehensive skincare routine. This study aimed to gain insight into the best baby skincare practices as per dermatologists, pediatricians and cosmetologists (Healthcare Professionals [HCPs]), on product prescribing patterns in India and parent’s awareness of the neonatal skincare armamentarium. Methods: An online survey was conducted to assess the best baby skincare practices as per HCPs on product prescribing patterns in India and parent’s awareness of the neonatal skincare armamentarium. Here, a total of 59 HCPs participated in this survey on Cetaphil baby products range (Galderma) conducted to find out the prescribing pattern for baby skincare products and to record parents’ awareness of the available products. Results: The survey showed that dry skin (29%), atopic dermatitis (28%) and diaper rash (15%) were the most encountered skincare problems by HCPs in newborns. The HCPs reported that liquid cleansers (26%) and syndet bars (25%) are some of the most prescribed products and were deemed fit for the majority of the newborns (49%), owing to their gentle and non-irritating properties. A complete skincare regime (cleanser, lotion, diaper cream) was also prescribed to most infants (69%). Moreover, most parents were aware of liquid cleansers for newborns (63%) and the majority of them (62%) knew the difference between syndet bars and normal soaps. Conclusion: Proper product prescription and utilization by HCPs and parents is key to ensuring healthy skin development in newborns. Following an extensive skincare regime inclusive of gentle cleansers, moisturizing lotions and barrier creams from an early stage is essential to protect newborn skin and achieve the desired results.