Beyond the need to effectively remove urine and faeces from the nappy area and ensure that skin folds and creases do not become a potential focus of infection, the hygiene needs of most neonates are fairly minimal. Despite this limited need intense debate about skin cleansing and whether or not to use skincare products has endured. Currently the use of skincare products and preparations with neonates is widely proscribed. However, recent research is now challenging one of the central dogmas of neonatal skin care; that water alone is best. This article revisits advice about the use of skin cleansing products in term healthy newborns in the light of new research and suggests there is a need for a more considered and nuanced articulation of the advice provided to parents on this important aspect of care.

Kevin Hugill - Senior Lecturer, School of Health, University of Central Lancashire