Abstract
At birth the development of the skin as an organ with multiple protective functions is not completely accomplished. The postnatal adaptation is fulfilled in the early weeks and months of the postnatal life. This process, especially the epidermal barrier maturation, is even more dynamic in preterm and low birth weight infants. Skin surface acidity plays an essential role in the defense mechanism and the dermal adaptation to the gaseous environment. This review offers a practical overview on skin adaptation from birth to early childhood (barrier function, sebaceous and eccrine secretions, vascularisation). Age, anatomical site and environmental factors influences are discussed. A practical approach to the cosmetic care and the toileting of the infant skin is proposed.
Translated title of the contribution | Skin adaptation from birth to childhood: Practical considerations |
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Original language | French |
Pages (from-to) | 229-232 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Nouvelles Dermatologiques |
Volume | 30 |
Issue number | 4 |
Publication status | Published - Apr 2011 |
Keywords
- Hydration
- Infants
- Newborn
- PH
- Skin barrier
- Skin care
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Dermatology