Baby Massage

[Rex L]

So I have a week and a half to go before my baby is due (hopefully sooner) and was wondering what pointers you guys had on baby massage. We took it in school and I have a book on the subject. I also intend to fill my continuing education becoming an instucter inthe field, but that is not till this winter. What types of lotions do you use? I would think oils might clog pores. Any input on the subject would be much appreciated.

 

[LiTtLe mIsS kAyLeE]

I use oil when I teach my new parents, usually safflower or grapeseed.  Something very light and unscented.My best advice for new parents wanting to massage baby is to remember to enjoy what they are doing!  I have so many first time parents who get all wrapped up in learning specific techniques and routines and I need to remind them to relax and enjoy this special time with their baby.  It's not rocket science and it should be fun, not stressful.Good luck!

 

[Pompal 09.]

I shall just get this out straight away no essential oils!!!! There really hasn't been enough research done to say even the generally recommended "safe" oils for children are actually safe. The liver is still growing, so no need to overload it with some essentail oils.  This actually means don't use alot of the "natural" baby massage oils around, and baby bath essential oils.  They usually include lavender and chamomile - avoid for at least 6 months. Basically if anything smells like an essential oil - it's too much essential oils. (fully qualified aromatherapist here)I recommend jojoba - it's almost exactly the same make up as the skin's own sebum - it just adds a glide rather than an oil slick.  It is more expensive, but you use less so roughly evens out pricewise.  4oz bottles are a good retail item for me for babies People never seem to know what jojoba is, so are more likely to buy it.  Vegetable oils they think "grocery store will be cheaper", but I recommend jojoba because it is the best, not because it is easy to sell.  I use jojoba for full body massage for adults and use just over a tablespoon (tablespoon if the naughty word replacement is still going on), infants you're down to 1/4 - 1/2 a teaspoon - depends on how dry the hands doing the massage are more than the baby!