When I was pregnant with my son, one of the more mysterious pieces of advice I received was to oil his fontanel with vitamin E oil before he went to bed at night. This brought up so many questions in my mind; why was it important to do this, how should I do it, and what would happen if I didn’t? Thankfully, after doing some research and talking to pediatricians, I learned that you shouldn’t forget to oil your baby’s fontanel before bed!


Soft Spot

The soft spot on a baby's head is called the fontanel. This area will close as the baby grows and develops, but at six months of age it should still be there. The fontanel is present due to the flexible nature of infant skull bones. Normally, this area would be oiled at each diaper change with an oil like coconut or olive oil. It may appear rough and dry, but if you are concerned you can always ask your pediatrician for guidance.

https://besthealthcaretips9.blogspot.com/2022/08/8-baby-care-tips-for-your-first-month.html

Cranial Sutures

A baby fontanel is the soft spot on top of a baby's head where their skull plates are not yet fully connected. If a baby is not oiled, it can lead to a dry and sore scalp.



Cranial Bones

A baby fontanel, also known as an open fontanelle, is a soft spot on the top of a baby's head. Typically, this spot closes before the child reaches one year old, but it can sometimes stay open for a few more years. Baby oil can be used to lubricate this area to prevent itching and cracking from forming.


How to Protect Your Child’s Soft Spot

Protecting your baby’s fontanel is


important for the proper development of their brain. Once a baby reaches 6 months old, you should oil their fontanel every night. To do this, use a cotton ball or gauze pad dipped in olive oil or coconut oil and wipe around the soft spot on the top of your baby’s head, where it meets his skull.


Sometimes Newborns Get Infections in Their Soft Spots

A baby fontanel is an opening in the skull, called a soft spot, that closes soon after birth. Sometimes, if there is not enough oil on the surface of the scalp, hair can grow into the soft spot and irritate it. This can lead to an infection called impetigo. It often starts as a red pimple or bump.



When To Worry About A Newborn’s Soft Spot

Parents, never forget to oil your baby's fontanel! The soft spot between a baby’s head and neck can become hard, dry and irritated if it is not properly cared for. When I was born my family put olive oil on my little head twice a day. It’s now known that putting vitamin E on the fontanel instead of olive oil will also help moisturize it.

https://besthealthcaretips9.blogspot.com/2022/08/new-baby-heres-how-to-keep-them-safe.html

How Can I Tell If My Child Has A Problem With His/Her Soft Spot?

If you think your child may have a problem with their soft spot, be sure to keep an eye out for the following signs: A dried and hard fontanel that is beginning to close over; Bulging in the fontanel area; The baby is irritable or has difficulty sleeping. If you notice any of these symptoms, speak with your doctor about how often you should oil your baby's fontanel.



Call The Doctor If...

If your baby's fontanel is not oiled, it can lead to problems such as redness, pain, swelling, and fever. If this occurs please call your doctor. Baby fontanels need oiling to keep them healthy and prevent these issues from happening.