Simple Skincare Routine for Kids

This routine is intentionally simple and gentle. It works for all ages, with one important note about sunscreen use. For more information about skincare for young children, see How Do I Choose the Best Baby Skin Care Products?

The routine below references products from Simple DIY Skincare: The Complete Guide to Easy, Natural Recipes for Beginners. In the book, you’ll learn how to make each product yourself — including minimalist versions, variations, and customization options — so the routine becomes fully tailored to your skin.

If you don’t have the book yet, you can still follow the structure of the routine using products you already own. But if you want to create the exact formulas this routine is designed around, the book walks you through every recipe step‑by‑step.

As Needed

1. Cleanse

Use a gentle, fragrance‑free cleanser during bath time. Avoid over‑bathing, since frequent washing can strip natural oils. Oil Cleanser without essential oils is an excellent option for young skin—it cleans without drying or disrupting the barrier. Add a small amount to a warm, damp cloth and gently wipe the skin.

2. Moisturize

After bathing, apply a thin layer of a simple, fragrance‑free plant oil to lock in moisture and support the skin barrier.

If a rash does NOT exist:

  • Meadowfoam Oil
  • Jojoba Oil

If a rash DOES exist:

  • Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides (MCT Oil)
  • Squalane

These oils protect against dryness, cold, heat, and wind without requiring preservatives.

For children over age 2, you may use the Malassezia Moisturizer with the Rose and Copaiba Blend.

Diaper Care

  • Change diapers promptly.
  • Apply a thin layer of oil or Baby Ointment to protect the skin.
  • Avoid powders, fragrances, and essential oils.

Sun Protection

For children under 3 months, avoid sunscreen. Keep babies shaded, covered, or indoors during peak sun hours (10 AM–4 PM).

For children 3 months and older, use a mineral sunscreen with:

  • SPF 30 or higher
  • Broad‑spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)
  • Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients

Avoid chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone, avobenzone, octocrylene, or retinyl palmitate. Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.

Acne

Dry Skin

Oily Skin

Malassezia

Body Odor