What Is an Emollient and Why Is It So Important for Your Baby’s Skin?
As a mum who wanted to prevent nappy rash before it even started, I quickly learned how important emollients are for keeping my baby’s skin soft, protected, and healthy. But when I first heard the word emollient, I wasn’t exactly sure what it meant—was it just another word for moisturiser? Did all emollients work the same way? And most importantly, were the ones in commercial nappy creams actually helping my baby’s skin?
Through my research (and a lot of trial and error), I realised that not all emollients are created equal. That’s why I started making my own natural balm, packed with high-quality emollients like shea butter, beeswax, jojoba oil, and castor oil. I wanted something that would truly nourish and protect my baby’s skin without unnecessary chemicals—and when other mums started asking about it, I knew I wasn’t the only one looking for a better option!
So, what exactly is an emollient, and why is it so important?
What Is an Emollient?
An emollient is a substance that softens and soothes the skin, forming a protective barrier to help lock in moisture and prevent irritation. Unlike regular moisturisers, which simply add hydration, emollients also help to repair the skin barrier, making them essential for sensitive, dry, or irritated skin.
Babies have delicate skin that’s thinner and more prone to moisture loss than adult skin. That means they need good-quality emollients to keep their skin protected—especially in areas like the nappy region, where friction, moisture, and bacteria can cause problems.
Why Are Emollients Necessary for Babies?
Even though my baby never developed nappy rash, I wanted to make sure their skin stayed healthy from the start. That’s why I made sure to use a natural balm with high-quality emollients—not just any off-the-shelf cream.
Here’s why emollients are essential for baby skin:
1. They Help Prevent Nappy Rash
Nappy rash often happens when the skin is exposed to too much moisture, friction, or irritants from nappies and wipes. A good emollient-based balm creates a barrier that stops moisture from sitting against the skin while also keeping it soft and resilient.
2. They Protect Against Dryness (Even from Water!)
It might sound surprising, but water itself can dry out the skin. Frequent washing, baths, or even just exposure to hard water can strip away natural oils, making the skin more prone to dryness. A good emollient helps restore those oils and keeps the skin hydrated and balanced.
3. They Prevent Irritation from Nappies and Detergents
Many nappies contain plastics that trap heat and moisture, while some laundry detergents leave behind residues that can cause irritation when combined with sweat and a wet nappy. Using an emollient balm after every nappy change helps protect the skin from these external irritants.
4. They Keep Wipes from Causing Redness
Some baby wipes—especially those with fragrances and harsh ingredients—can be too abrasive on delicate skin. If your baby’s skin is already dry or sensitive, wipes can make things worse. A layer of emollient balm acts as a protective barrier, helping to reduce irritation from wipes.
Why Good Quality Emollients Matter
Not all emollients are created equal. Many commercial baby creams and balms contain synthetic emollients or petroleum-based ingredients that sit on top of the skin without actually nourishing it. While they might temporarily reduce moisture loss, they don’t provide the long-term benefits of high-quality natural emollients.
That’s why I started making my own natural balm, using shea butter, beeswax, jojoba oil, and castor oil—all of which are rich in vitamins, fatty acids, and natural healing properties. Here’s why these ingredients are so powerful:
• Shea Butter – Deeply moisturises and soothes irritation, packed with natural anti-inflammatory properties.
• Beeswax – Creates a breathable protective barrier that helps keep moisture in without clogging pores.
• Jojoba Oil – Mimics the skin’s natural oils, making it super gentle and ideal for delicate baby skin.
• Castor Oil – Has natural antimicrobial properties that help protect against bacteria and irritation.
Unlike synthetic emollients, these ingredients don’t just sit on the skin—they actively nourish, repair, and protect it.
The Bottom Line
A good quality emollient does so much more than just moisturise—it actively protects, nourishes, and repairs the skin, making it essential for keeping your baby’s skin soft and irritation-free. Since babies have such delicate, sensitive skin, using the right emollient can help prevent issues like dryness, redness, and nappy rash before they even start.
Even though my baby has never had nappy rash, I’ve noticed that their skin can still get dry from time to time—whether it’s from water, the weather, or even a change in nappies. But by applying my balm regularly, I’ve been able to keep their skin balanced and comfortable, stopping any irritation in its tracks.
That’s exactly why I started making and selling our balm—because I wanted something that truly worked, without unnecessary chemicals. If you’re looking for an emollient that actually supports your baby’s skin, choosing one with natural, high-quality ingredients can make all the difference.
Disclaimer: The content on this blog is based on my own knowledge, research, and personal perspectives. It is intended for informational and guidance purposes only. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, I encourage all readers to conduct their own research, verify sources, and consult with relevant professionals before forming opinions or making decisions based on my posts. Additionally, none of the content on this blog is intended to be medical advice. I am not a medical professional, and any health-related topics discussed should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns. By reading this blog, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own choices and interpretations of the information provided.
