Newborn Nail Care and Things to Pay Attention To

Newborn Nail Care and Important Tips

At first glance, a baby’s nails may look tiny and harmless  but they can actually be quite sharp. During the newborn period, uncontrolled nails can cause a baby to scratch their own face or eyes. That’s why nail care is an important task to pay attention to from the very first weeks after birth.

Why Do Newborn Nails Grow So Fast?

Newborn babies’ nails are softer than adults’ but grow faster. This is because babies have a faster metabolism. Although their constant hand movements may make it seem like their nails are wearing down naturally, they usually need to be trimmed once a week.

The Best Time to Trim Nails

The ideal time to cut your baby’s nails is after a bath.

At that time, the nails are softened and easier to trim. Babies also tend to be relaxed after bathing, which helps reduce movement.

Tip:

If you can’t do it after a bath, you can gently trim the nails while your baby is sleeping. Just make sure the room is well lit.

Which Tool Should Be Used?

• Choose baby nail scissors or rounded baby nail files made specifically for newborns.
• Adult nail clippers can damage a baby’s delicate nails.
• Make sure the scissor tip is closed or rounded.

Clean the tool before each use.

Hold the baby’s hand steady but not too tightly during trimming.

Things to Pay Attention to While Trimming

Don’t cut too deep. Cutting too close to the skin can hurt your baby.

File for shape. Use a baby nail file to smooth sharp corners after cutting.

Don’t clean under the nails. Inserting objects under the nails increases infection risk.

Keep the baby calm. If your baby moves a lot, it’s safer to have another person helpone entertains the baby while the other trims.

What to Do If You Accidentally Cut the Skin

Even with great care, small accidents can happen.

If you accidentally cut your baby’s skin:

Press gently with a clean gauze pad.

The bleeding will stop quickly; bandages are not needed.

Do not use alcohol, iodine, or adhesive bandages  these can irritate a baby’s skin.

Are Night Mittens Necessary?

Some parents use soft cotton mittens to prevent babies from scratching their faces.

However, experts say prolonged use of mittens may weaken a baby’s sense of touch.

Babies need to explore their hands for proper motor development.

Therefore, as long as you keep their nails trimmed regularly, it’s healthier to focus on nail care instead of keeping mittens on.

Newborn nail care is a small but important detail.

Regular nail trimming not only keeps your baby safe but also prevents skin injuries.

With a calm and careful approach, you’ll soon turn this into an easy routine.

Remember  every care moment strengthens the loving bond between you and your baby.