Do you have excess stock of expressed breast milk (ASIP)? Don't throw it away, Bun. There are many benefits of breast milk for bathing babies, you know. A number of studies have proven that breast milk can maintain healthy skin and overcome various skin problems that are common in infants.
The benefits of breast milk for the health of babies are no longer in doubt. The nutrients contained in breast milk can form the baby's immune system, so that it is stronger against germs and viruses that cause disease. With a strong immune system, the baby will get sick less often.
Not only that, breast milk is also useful for supporting growth and development and maintaining the health of the baby's skin.
Various Benefits of Breast Milk for Baby Bath
Breast milk contains a variety of nutrients, such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and antibodies that are beneficial for baby's skin health. Here are the various benefits of bathing a baby with breast milk:
1. Relieves eczema
Eczema in babies can be caused by many things, ranging from heredity, weather, to the environment. In addition to routinely using a moisturizer, eczema in babies can be relieved by bathing in breast milk, you know.
Research shows that breast milk is rated as nearly as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs, such as hydrocortisone, in treating mild eczema.
Besides being good for relieving and preventing eczema symptoms, the content of palmitic acid, lauric acid, and oleic acid in breast milk is also good for moisturizing baby's skin.
2. Relieves tree rashes
Diaper rash is one of the most common skin problems experienced by babies. Although classified as harmless, this condition often makes babies fussy.
To deal with your little one's inflamed skin due to diaper rash, you can bathe him with breast milk. This effect is almost the same as the benefits of breastfeeding for eczema in infants.
3. Overcoming baby acne
The influence of maternal hormones in late pregnancy or the side effects of certain medications can trigger acne in babies. Usually, these pimples will disappear within a few weeks or after months.
To help overcome this, Mother can bathe the Little One with breast milk. This is because breast milk has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help get rid of acne. Remember, yes, bud. Do not squeeze pimples on your little one's skin because it can make the condition worse.
4. Relieves wounds from insect bites
Insect bites can trigger a baby's skin to develop bumps and rashes. This can make him feel uncomfortable and cranky. To relieve it, try bathing your little one with breast milk. This is because breast milk contains anti-inflammatory substances that can help relieve the effects of insect bites on babies.
5. Cleaning cradle cap
Baby's scalp is prone to cradle cap. When experiencing this condition, the scalp will look dry and scaly. This condition is normal and not dangerous. However, to help clean and moisturize your little one's skin, cradle cap, Mother can bathe it with breast milk.
How to bathe a baby with breast milk
Breast milk used for bathing can be freshly expressed or stock inside freezer. Before making a bath, breast milk that is still frozen must be warmed first.
For more details, here's how to bathe your little one with breast milk:
- Add 150–350 mL of breast milk to a bathtub filled with warm water.
- Bathe your little one in the tub for 5–15 minutes. Sprinkle a mixture of warm water and breast milk all over your little one's body and focus on the irritated skin.
- When finished, the little one's body does not need to be rinsed. Just pat gently with a towel until the body is dry.
- After that, massage your little one's body and apply a special moisturizer for sensitive baby skin to lock in skin moisture.
That's the benefit of breast milk for bathing babies that is a pity to miss. Mothers can apply this method to your little one 1-2 times a week. You don't need freshly expressed breast milk, expired breast milk can be bathed as long as there is no unpleasant smell.
It is important to remember that breast milk baths are not the main treatment for baby skin problems. If your little one's skin irritation is severe and doesn't improve after being bathed in breast milk, you should immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.
