One of the traditional practices followed by Indian moms since time immemorial is massaging the baby with natural oils. This keeps the baby skin hydrated, free from rashes and inflammation, and also helps in muscle development of the baby. These days most moms prefer organic oils, given that the absorption of such oils through the baby’s delicate skin is high. If you are wondering which organic oil to pick from, read on.
Organic Almond Oil – Among all the oils used for massage almond oil is preferred by mothers and is highly recommended by dermatologists. Almond oil is light (compared to oils like mustard oil) and is easily absorbed by the skin. It is a great moisturiser and keeps dry skin soft and supple. Babies are particularly prone to dry, flaky skin and almond oil does wonder in such cases. Its natural antifungal properties offer natural protection to babies.
Organic Olive Oil – Olive oil is popularly considered the best natural oil for newborn skin. Olive oil is possibly the best moisturiser for your baby’s skin and its regular massage lends a dewy glow. Massaging your baby’s feet with olive oil is likely to help them sleep better. The Omega-3 fatty acids and the linoleic acid in olive oil help soothe irritations and strengthen the skin. Do remember not to use olive oil, though, if your baby shows signs of eczema.
Organic Jojoba Oil – Jojoba oil is a natural wax-like oil extracted from jojoba seeds. It cannot be used as massage oil by itself but baby oils which use jojoba oil as one of the ingredients in the blend make for a great choice due to the antibacterial properties of jojoba. Jojoba oil is also a natural anti-oxidant that contains Vitamin E. This helps the baby skin fight off toxins and pollutants.
Organic Sesame Oil – Sesame oil is popularly used in southern India for cooking and for massages. It penetrates into the skin and nourishes from within. In the Ayurveda system of holistic healing, sesame oil is the preferred oil for massages. Blended oil which contains sesame seed oil is perfect for children and newborn babies. Sesame is also a natural stress buster. This makes a massage with sesame oil a natural aid for sound sleep and relaxation.
Organic Argan Oil – Argan oil, extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree, is rich in vitamin E and is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Argan oil when used as an ingredient in blended massage oil combats inflammation and also provides relief in case of small nicks and cuts. In and around Morocco, where the Argan tree is found, it is used to treat a number of skin conditions. Argan oil helps strengthen your baby’s skin and makes it supple.
Organic Safflower Oil – The safflower oil, made from safflower, is oil commonly used in cooking and also in holistic healing practices. When used in cooking, the oil increases the amount of omega-3 fatty acids consumed but when used as part of a massage oil blend, the safflower oil is an excellent remedy for rashes and dry skin. It is one of the best organic oils for baby skin.
Which oil is best?
Now having read about the benefits of various oils for your baby’s massage, it is natural that new mothers will find it difficult to choose. So, let’s make this a simple answer. Any blended massage oil for babies that contain two or more of these oils is preferable. In India, a number of brands use these as part of their baby oil blend. The goodness.me certified organic baby oil, for example, has all these oils and is further fortified with Vitamin E which boosts skin health.
While buying your baby massage oil, however, it is important to look for an organic certification that may read “COSMOS ORGANIC certified by ECOCERT GREENLIFE according to COSMOS Standard”. This is a guarantee that the oils and other ingredients are of organic origin and the oil does not contain other mineral oils, sulfates, parabens, and toxins.
