With the prevalence of misinformation, finding the best postpartum skincare for mother and child can be overwhelming. Lilian Bender, Brand Manager at Sanosan Schröder Cosmetics, shares expert-backed insights.
The weeks following childbirth are often one of the most physically and emotionally demanding in a woman’s life. Between labour recovery, hormonal adjustments, and caring for a newborn, postpartum care – self and skin – slips to the background. Although nurturing the skin during this stage is a form of recovery as well.
Postpartum skincare helps mothers heal while also safeguarding a newborn’s delicate skin. For mothers, stretch marks, dryness, and changes in skin tone are common as hormones fluctuate, and the body adapts to new territory. These shifts leave many women feeling disconnected from themselves. A gentle, consistent routine can help mothers regain balance while embracing the changes that come with this new reality.
For newborns, skincare takes on a different side. A baby’s skin is thinner, more delicate, and more prone to dryness or irritation than an adult’s. This makes them especially vulnerable in the early months. The right care helps to maintain the skin barrier and prevent common concerns such as rashes and eczema. Choosing the right products is important to protecting long-term skin health for your baby.
Studies have shown that melanin-rich skin requires particular attention to hydration and barrier support. Postpartum hormonal shifts can intensify dryness or uneven pigmentation, while babies with deeper skin tones often show dryness more visibly. This makes nourishing, dermatologically tested products with natural oils and barrier-strengthening ingredients especially valuable.
This is why expert guidance is invaluable. In this feature, we speak to Lilian Bender, Brand Manager at Sanosan, Schröder Cosmetics, whose insights shed light on safe, effective, and practical postpartum skincare for mother and child.
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Best practices for postpartum self-care in the first six weeks
What are the most important aspects of postpartum self-care that new mums should prioritise in the first six weeks?
The first six weeks after giving birth are filled with joy but also with physical and emotional challenges. Many mothers feel overwhelmed — everything revolves around the baby, and their own needs often take a back seat. It’s important to acknowledge this: you are not alone, and it’s completely normal to feel unsure or exhausted.
Self-care starts with the basics: try to rest whenever possible, even if it’s just a short nap while your baby sleeps. Accept help from family or friends — whether it’s for household chores, cooking, or simply having someone to talk to. Emotional well-being is just as important as physical recovery; don’t hesitate to share your feelings with your partner or a professional if you need support.
Gentle body care can also become a small ritual of self-appreciation. Even a few quiet minutes applying a nourishing cream can help you reconnect with yourself. Products like the Sanosan Mama Anti-Stretch Mark Cream can support your skin, helping it to regain elasticity and comfort.
“There’s no perfect way to be a mother, but taking care of yourself is always the right step.”
Managing dry skin and stretch marks after birth
Many mothers struggle with dry skin, stretch marks, or sensitivity after birth — what are the best products or ingredients to look out for?
After pregnancy, hormonal changes often lead to drier or more sensitive skin, and many women notice stretch marks. First and foremost: be proud of what your body has accomplished. It’s entirely normal for skin to change.
For care, focus on products with natural ingredients such as olive oil, shea butter, or panthenol. These ingredients nourish, soothe, and strengthen the skin. Avoid products with many additives or strong fragrances, as your skin may react more sensitively than before. If you’re unsure, opt for dermatologically tested creams designed for mothers, such as those from the Sanosan Mama range.
Above all, give yourself time — skin changes are never resolved overnight, and that’s okay.
Stretch marks are one of the most common skin changes during and after pregnancy. What causes them, and what are the best ways for new mums to minimise them?
Stretch marks are a sign of your body’s amazing adaptability. They occur when the skin stretches rapidly, as in pregnancy, causing tiny tears in the deeper layers. Genetics, skin type, and hormones all play a role in whether and how visibly stretch marks appear.
While it’s not always possible to prevent them, you can support your skin’s elasticity by gently massaging it daily and using nourishing oils or creams. Ingredients like almond oil and vitamin E are good choices. Regular care helps skin feel softer and may support fading over time. The Sanosan Mama Anti-Stretch Mark Oil is a gentle companion for this daily ritual.
Most importantly, stretch marks often fade naturally and are a beautiful reminder of how your body stretched to create new life.
Read also: Why Alma Ngur’s postpartum beauty routine is all about ease and confidence
Postpartum skincare routines for sensitive skin
What’s the best way for mothers with sensitive skin to build a simple, safe postpartum skincare routine?
Simplicity is key — especially when your skin is sensitive. Choose a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and a rich, gentle moisturiser. Avoid experimenting with new, highly active products at this stage. Instead, stick to basics and observe how your skin responds.
Always patch-test new products in a small area before full use. Look for dermatologically tested products made for sensitive or postpartum skin. The Sanosan Mama line is designed with these needs in mind, offering gentle and effective care without unnecessary additives. Don’t forget sun protection — even if you’re mostly indoors. Your skin will thank you for the gentle approach.
Read also: It’s still Skin Cancer Awareness Month — here’s why sunscreen is essential for Black skin
The link between rest, nutrition, and postpartum skin health
How important is rest and nutrition in postpartum recovery, and how does it reflect on skin and hair health?
Rest and nutrition are the foundation of postpartum recovery. While it’s not always easy to get enough sleep with a newborn, try to rest whenever you can — your body needs this time to heal. Accept help and don’t feel guilty about taking breaks.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats supports not only your energy levels but also your skin and hair. Many women experience hair loss or dull skin after giving birth — this is normal and usually temporary. Drinking enough water and eating nutritious foods can make a difference.
No product can replace the benefits of good nutrition and rest, but supportive skincare can help you feel more comfortable in your skin during this phase.
Recommended products
Sanosan Mama Stretch Mark Fader – Shop Here
Mama Stretch Mark Cream – Shop Here
Sanosan Mama Anti-Stretch Mark Oil – Shop Here
Read also: Nigerian Mothers: How to fix postpartum changes in Skin and Hair
Baby skincare essentials: safe practices and ingredients
What is the safest way to care for a newborn’s skin, especially for babies prone to dryness or eczema?
Newborn skin is incredibly delicate. Therefore, less is more: use only lukewarm water for baths in the beginning and avoid soap or bubble baths. If your baby is prone to dryness, a mild, fragrance-free lotion like Sanosan Baby Care Lotion can help keep skin soft and protected.
If you notice redness or dry patches, don’t hesitate to talk to your paediatrician. Every baby’s skin is different — what works for one may not work for another.
What ingredients should parents avoid in baby care products?
Baby skin is much thinner and more sensitive than adult skin. Avoid parabens, mineral oils, and harsh detergents. Instead, look for short ingredient lists and dermatologically tested products. Sanosan Baby products focus on gentle, natural ingredients developed to minimise irritation and protect the baby’s skin barrier.
How do Sanosan’s products specifically support the unique needs of a baby’s skin barrier?
Sanosan combines gentle, natural ingredients like olive oil and milk protein to support your baby’s skin barrier. All products are dermatologically tested and developed for the unique needs of sensitive baby skin, helping to prevent dryness, irritation, and discomfort.
“Every baby is different—what works for one may not work for another.”
Bathing newborns, diaper care and daily moisturising tips
What are the best practices for bathing a newborn — how often, what temperature, and what products are safe?
Bathing one to three times a week is usually enough for newborns. Use lukewarm water (about 37 °C) and keep baths short. For cleansing, a gentle product like Sanosan Baby Bath & Shampoo can be used, but plain water is often sufficient in the first weeks. After bathing, pat your baby dry with a soft towel and apply a mild lotion to prevent dryness.
How important is diaper care in preventing rashes, and what’s your expert advice on daily moisturising a baby’s skin?
Frequent diaper changes and gentle cleaning are key to preventing rashes. Let the skin air-dry whenever possible, and use a protective cream if you notice redness. Sanosan Panthenol Nappy Cream helps soothe and protect sensitive skin in the diaper area.
Daily moisturising, especially after baths, helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier. Just a small amount of a mild lotion is enough.
Recommended products
Sanosan Baby Care Bath & Shampoo – Shop Here
Baby Care Lotion with Milk Pro – Shop Here
Sanosan Baby Panthenol Nappy Cream – Shop Here
Baby Care Oil – Shop Here
Postpartum skincare for mother & child
Can mums and babies share certain products safely, or should their routines be kept separate?
It’s tempting to use the same product for both, but baby skin is much more sensitive and needs special care. While some very mild creams might be suitable for both, it’s safer to use products tailored to each of you. Sanosan offers dedicated ranges for mothers and babies, so you can be sure you’re giving yourself and your baby exactly what is needed.
What role do scents and fragrances play in bonding, and is fragrance-free always better for newborns?
A mother’s natural scent is one of the first things a newborn recognises, which helps create a sense of comfort and security. For baby care products, it’s not always necessary to choose completely fragrance-free options. What truly matters is that any fragrance used is exceptionally mild and specially formulated for sensitive baby skin.
Mild fragrances can make daily care routines more enjoyable for both mother and child, while still respecting the delicate nature of newborn skin. For the very first weeks, many parents prefer fragrance-free or ultra-mildly scented products, which is completely understandable. As your baby grows, a light, skin-friendly scent can even become a comforting part of your shared rituals and memories. At Sanosan, we use only gentle, well-tolerated scents that have been carefully tested for safety.
Ultimately, the best choice is a product with a mild, baby-appropriate fragrance that supports both the emotional connection and the well-being of your child.
What should parents look out for in product labels?
Look for “dermatologically tested,” “free from parabens and mineral oils,” and products with natural oils or plant-based ingredients. Sanosan products are developed with these standards, so you can trust you’re making a safe choice for you and your child.
Expert postpartum skincare advice to all new mothers
If you feel overwhelmed or unsure, you are not alone. Every journey is unique, and it’s okay to ask for help or take a break. Small rituals — whether a quiet moment with your favourite cream or a gentle baby massage — can make a big difference. Sanosan also provides gentle, effective care for both mother and baby, making the postpartum journey more comfortable and reassuring.
Visit www.sanosan.de for more helpful tips and suitable products.
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