Best Massage Oil for Babies in Summer — And Which Oils to Avoid

Dr. Sandip Gupta

This video begins with a case: a baby came to the doctor with a rash because the mother had bathed the baby and then massaged with mustard oil. The doctor explains which oil to use in summer and which to avoid. Key points covered in the video: Do not massage with mustard oil in summer, and do the massage before the bath. Coconut oil is the best massage oil for babies in summer. It gives a cooling effect, moisturises the skin well, and contains lauric acid which has antibacterial properties, so the baby's skin does not get an infection. Coconut oil also protects the skin from becoming dry. For diaper rash – if you apply coconut oil in the diaper area every time you change the diaper, diaper rash also does not develop. Other recommended oils – apart from coconut oil, sunflower oil and safflower oil are recommended. Oils to avoid – never massage children with ghee, mustard oil or olive oil. Massaging with these oils causes irritation to the child's skin and damages the skin's barrier function. Relevant for: parents asking which oil to use for baby massage in summer; parents whose baby developed a rash or skin irritation after an oil massage; parents asking whether mustard oil, ghee or olive oil are safe for babies; parents wanting to know whether to massage before or after the bath; parents looking for a way to prevent diaper rash; and parents asking about coconut, sunflower and safflower oil for infant skin. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every child is different — please consult your pediatrician before using any oil on your baby's skin, especially if your baby has a rash, eczema, sensitive skin, or a history of allergy.