While baby powder is a great way to keep your baby smelling sweet and fresh, its better to avoid that extra dab on the soft, gentle skin. That's right, remember, liberal application of the powder, may just not agree with you baby's skin, as it is very fragile and therefore more prone to irritant and allergic skin problems.

So the next time you're tempted to buy that highly fragranced, attractively packed powder on the shelf, think twice. Because, that delicious aroma is nothing but extra fragrance which could cause irritation to your baby's vulnerable skin.

But baby powder has a great deal of benefits too! Nothing like a dab of baby powder to keep it fresh and dry during nappy changes. Baby powder works well, to keep nappy rashes and prickly heat in check as well. And in hot and humid weather conditions it could keep baby's skin cool and comfortable by eliminating friction.

Do keep these pointers in mind, the next time you shop for baby powder.

• Buy only well-known, reputed brands
• Check the ingredients - make sure that it's not harsh for the baby. Choose products that are phthalate-free
• Talc is a strict no-no. instead choose the safer cornstarch-based alternative

Also remember:

• Restrict the use of baby powder on baby's face and nostrils. Powder can cause breathing problems and serious lung damage when inhaled
• To avoid irritation, gently wipe away powder that may have accumulated in the baby's skin folds whenever you change the diaper

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