There are certain parts of babyhood we’d hold onto forever: contact naps, toothless smiles, that mysteriously perfect “new baby” smell. And while science hasn’t quite figured out how to bottle up that essence, we can help keep their soft, sweet skin as healthy and comfortable as possible—especially if they’re prone to eczema.

For babies with sensitive skin, the diaper environment plays a major role in either supporting the skin barrier…or irritating it. Here’s what parents should know about moisture, friction, chemicals, pH balance, and how the right diaper can make a big difference.

How the Diaper Environment Affects Eczema

Baby skin is naturally delicate, but eczema-prone skin has a more reactive barrier and microbiome, making it extra vulnerable to changes in moisture, temperature, pH, and irritants. Especially inside the diaper, where it’s warm, enclosed, and frequently wet, it can quickly become a hotspot for potential flare-ups. Here’s how that environment can lead to a disruption in your baby’s microbiome:

1. Moisture builds up fast

Wetness increases the skin’s pH and weakens the protective acid mantle, which normally sits around a mildly acidic 5.5. When pH drifts higher, skin becomes more prone to irritation, barrier breakdown, and inflammation. Wet diapers, frequent wiping, and trapped humidity can all contribute.

Coterie diapers are engineered for fast-wicking, high-volume absorption that pulls moisture away from the skin more quickly, helping maintain a healthier diaper environment for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

2. Friction can trigger flare-ups

When skin is already dry or inflamed, even small amounts of rubbing can worsen irritation. In the diaper area, friction often comes from:

• damp skin rubbing against the diaper
• bunching or sagging diapers
• rough or chemical-treated materials
• folds, rolls, and inner thighs with extra sweat or moisture

Coterie uses clothing-grade, soft-touch materials that help minimize friction. A secure-yet-flexible fit reduces rubbing and chafing, especially during movement and sleep.

3. Harsh ingredients can disrupt the skin’s pH & microbiome

A healthy skin barrier and microbiome work together: the acid mantle supports good bacteria, and those bacteria help defend against pathogens and irritants. But certain chemicals commonly used in diapers (like dyes, lotions, or chlorine-bleached pulp) can disrupt this balance.

Coterie diapers use TCF pulp, contain no added fragrances or dyes, and are hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested—minimizing exposure to irritants that can aggravate eczema.

Supporting Baby’s Skin Barrier in the Diaper Area

The healthiest diaper routine for eczema-prone babies is the simplest one. Dermatologists recommend focusing on supporting the skin barrier and preserving the natural microbiome.

Here’s how:

1. Choose a highly absorbent, fast-wicking diaper
   A dryer environment helps maintain optimal pH and reduces friction. Coterie’s superior absorption helps keep skin protected, even overnight.
2. Use gentle, pH-balanced wipes
   Harsh wipes can temporarily alter the skin’s pH or over-strip the barrier. Coterie wipes are pH-balanced, hypoallergenic, and accepted by the National Eczema Association.
3. Give skin a chance to breathe
   A little diaper-free time allows moisture and heat to dissipate (both major eczema triggers).
4. Keep rolls and folds moisturized
   This helps reduce friction and supports barrier recovery.
5. Keep bath and skincare routines simple
   Short, warm (not hot!) baths and fragrance-free cleansers prevent over-drying, helping both the microbiome and the barrier stay in balance.

When a baby has eczema-prone skin, choosing the right diaper is more than a convenience. It’s part of their daily skin health routine. By minimizing moisture, reducing friction, and avoiding harsh chemicals, Coterie’s diapers help create a gentler, healthier environment for sensitive skin.

Soft baby skin might not stay forever, but with the right care, we can make sure it’s protected every step of the way.