Choosing the Best Oil for Your Newborn’s Delicate Skin

When it comes to caring for your newborn’s sensitive skin, selecting the right baby oil is essential. Look for oils that are natural, gentle, hypoallergenic and suitable for delicate skin. Below are five of the best oils for newborns that are commonly recommended by healthcare professionals and used in traditional baby care routines.

1. Fractionated Coconut Oil

Why it’s good:
Fractionated coconut oil is lightweight, non-greasy and quickly absorbed. It retains the skin’s moisture without leaving a heavy residue. Unlike virgin coconut oil, it’s less likely to cause allergic reactions, making it ideal for sensitive baby skin.

Skin benefits:

• Natural moisturiser

• Non-comedogenic

• Odourless and colourless

Best for: Babies with dry, flaky, or sensitive skin.

2. Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil mimics the skin’s natural sebum, which makes it a gentle and nourishing option for babies.

Skin benefits:

• Soothes irritation and dryness

• Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)

• Antibacterial properties

Cultural use: Commonly used in baby care routines across various cultures due to its mild and effective properties.

3. Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is another popular lightweight oil that’s great for newborn massage. It’s full of vitamin E and antioxidants, helping to protect and nourish baby skin.

Skin benefits:

• Quick absorption

• Helps maintain skin elasticity

• Ideal for massage and everyday use

Best for: Babies with sensitive skin or those prone to dryness.

4. Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, making it a nourishing choice. It’s been used for centuries in baby massage routines around the world.

Caution: If your family has a history of nut allergies, consult your paediatrician before use.

Skin benefits:

• Hydrates and softens skin

• Promotes healthy skin barrier

• Gentle and calming

5. Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is a gentle and natural moisturiser, commonly used in organic baby skincare products.

Skin benefits:

• Lightweight and soothing

• High in vitamin E and linoleic acid

• Supports healthy skin barrier function

Best for: Daily hydration and massage for normal to dry skin types.

Best Oils for Baby Massage

For baby massage, we recommend using organic sunflower oil or fractionated coconut oil. Both are gentle, absorb quickly and are free from harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances.

Tip: Choose oils that are labelled as organic, cold-pressed, and unrefined for the purest quality.

Important Safety Tips

• ✅ Always do a patch test before applying any oil to your baby’s skin.

• ✅ Avoid oils with added fragrance, preservatives, or essential oils unless approved by a healthcare provider.

• ✅ Consult your paediatrician or midwife before introducing any new skincare product, especially if your baby has eczema or known sensitivities.

Summary: Which Oil Is Best for Newborn Skin?