Patient's question:
My baby is seven and a half months old. In the south, the chin has developed cracks and is very rough, while the face hasn't cracked much. I wonder if it's because of food spilling onto the chin and then being exposed to wind. However, I haven't noticed the same issue in nearby neighbors' children. I've tried applying a children's cream, but it hasn't worked. Currently, I'm using petroleum jelly, which might not be very effective either. I'm very frustrated and don't know how to properly treat this. Please advise the experts.Doctor's answer:
Hello: Thank you for your trust in us!According to your description, it is recommended that you follow the following practices:
1. Occlusive Moisturization (Preventing Skin Moisture Evaporation)
Apply petroleum jelly or other mineral oils to the skin to create a seal, preventing moisture from evaporating. Commercial products like Pears' Vaseline Skincare Cream work on this principle. However, the drawback is that they are too greasy and prone to making the skin dirty.
2. Hygroscopic Moisturization (Absorbing External Moisture)
These methods use glycerin, sorbitol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, etc. They have hygroscopic properties, drawing moisture from the atmosphere into the skin. For example, glycerin is hygroscopic and moisturizing, but pure glycerin can instead draw moisture from the skin. It must be diluted to a 1:3 ratio. In most prescriptions, 10%-15% glycerin is added, as it is both oil-soluble and hygroscopic.
3. Hydration Moisturization (Combining Hydration Effects)
These are hydrophilic substances that dissolve in water. They form a mesh-like structure, converting free water into bound water within the network. Examples include collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.
4. Reparative Moisturization (Repairing Keratinocytes)
This method enhances the skin's protective function to achieve moisturization. Examples include vitamins A, C, E, B5, and alpha hydroxy acids. These ingredients improve keratinocyte function and metabolism, thereby boosting the skin's moisturizing capacity.
The simplest and most effective method is to drink plenty of water, wash your face frequently, and splash water on your face regularly.