As beneficial as baby massage can be for both baby as well as his or her caregivers, it can also be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken prior to beginning. In order to keep baby safe and healthy, be sure to follow these tips.
Always wash hands before handling baby. This is especially important during flu season to prevent transfer of germs, but should also be done year-round. Once clean, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and face in general while touching the baby. Keep loose hair tied back to keep it from falling on the baby (or simply in the way) as well.
Safely secure baby. He or she should lay on a comfortable and secure surface, such as a blanket on the floor.
Only warm oil with your hands. While you may enjoy an oil massage with microwaved oil, it may be too hot for baby. Instead, warm it gently by rubbing your hands together.
Avoid cuts, bruises or rashes. If the baby has a large rash or other skin condition present, it’s best to avoid massage until it has properly healed. If there is just a small cut, simply massage other areas of the body, avoiding the affected area.
Avoid sensitive areas. Eyes and mouth should not be massaged. Other areas that a baby may have a particular sensitivity to should also be avoided.
Avoid baby’s soft spot. Her head should be avoided entirely during massage to ensure safety. Her face and neck can be gently massaged, however.
Never use heavily scented oils or lotions with perfumes. Use naturally based oils, like vegetable or apricot oil.
