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Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Transcutaneous Microcirculatory Imaging in Preterm Neonates
06:27

Transcutaneous Microcirculatory Imaging in Preterm Neonates

Published on: December 31, 2015

Skin care for preterm and term neonates

F S Afsar1

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Dr Behcet Uz Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey. suleafsar@hotmail.com

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
|July 7, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Neonatal skin requires careful management due to its immature barrier, which increases risks of dryness, infection, and drug absorption. This review covers essential skin care practices for newborns.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal dermatology
  • Pediatric skin care

Background:

  • Neonatal skin barrier is immature and vulnerable.
  • This immaturity leads to dryness, trauma susceptibility, and increased absorption.
  • Risks include microbial colonization and percutaneous toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review practical implications of neonatal skin care.
  • To guide practices for hygiene, bathing, and emollient use.
  • To address infection control and toxic agent exposure in infants.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of neonatal skin physiology and care.
  • Synthesis of current evidence on infant skin management.
  • Focus on practical recommendations for clinical settings.

Main Results:

  • Specific guidance on bathing frequency and methods.
  • Importance of appropriate emollient selection and application.
  • Strategies for maintaining skin integrity and preventing infections.
  • Minimizing risks from percutaneous absorption of agents.

Conclusions:

  • Optimizing neonatal skin care is crucial for infant health.
  • Adherence to recommended practices supports barrier function.
  • Proactive management reduces complications in preterm and term infants.

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