The skin color is controlled by a pigment known as melanin which is present in the skin cells just below the surface of the skin. Skin color is a result of genetics. When there is more melanin the skin tends to be darker. However, the shade of the skin can be different based on the health of the person. Although the skin color remains the same in people, it will appear different because the skin becomes dull or dry in an unhealthy person. Dull skin is a symptom of poor health and should be taken as a sign to improve one’s diet and lifestyle.
If your baby shows no other signs or symptoms of illness, the dull skin is probably being caused by inadequate quantities of certain vitamins and minerals in the diet. These essential nutrients tend to have a positive effect on skin texture and tone.
To restore your baby’s shine, you should focus on the following drinks and foods for help. Primarily, make your baby drink more water. Water helps to hydrate the body and dehydrated skin will appear dull. If your baby’s urine is particularly yellow, this may also point to a lack of hydration. Water is essential for good skin.
Strawberries and blueberries are known to be antioxidants and could help with good skin tone and color. Yogurt is also recommended for the same as it contains a good amount of vitamin A. You can give your child a strawberry yogurt which will be tasty as well as healthy. Make sure that it contains natural strawberry and not some artificial chemical flavor. Carrots are also rich in vitamin A and in carotene which will give a nice tone to the skin. A small quantity of mashed carrots could also be added to your child’s diet.
You can follow some non diet based remedies as well. Firstly, check the soap that you are using. Most soaps tend to be dehydrating and could cause dull skin. Make sure that your soap is not doing this to your baby’s body. You can try baby oil which can be massaged into your baby’s skin. Baby oils nourish the skin well and will also help you prevent diaper rash or rashes under the armpits and thighs. If your baby is breastfeeding, try and eat healthy yourself as per your doctor’s advice. You can also bathe your baby in cool water as excessive hot bath water causes dry skin.