On this blog you can normally find us analysing the latest fragrance releases, or gushing over ultra-innovative skincare that’s breaking all sorts of sales records. But for today I’d like to slow the pace just a touch and chat about the needs of some our littler customers. That’s right, pull up your high chairs – I’m talking baby skincare.

While you’re probably a little more flexible with what you use on your own skin, there’s no compromising when it comes to your baby. You want to make sure that everything that they come into contact with will respect their delicate little bodies, and you want it do a really good job of making their cleansing and care routines enjoyable for the both of you.

One brand that we recommend over and over again is Mustela. As the #1 baby care range in France with a heritage spanning 60 years, Mustela is well versed in caring for the skin of babies and toddlers, and it does so with a blend of natural ingredients and dermatologically advanced formulations. So you get all of the gentleness and comfort of formulas that boast between 85-100% natural ingredients, with the reassurance of high tech compositions that are approved by paediatricians, dermatologists and the toughest critics of them all – mums.

The brilliance of this baby brand really can’t be overstated. But if you’re new and don’t know where to start, these are the key products that I think that you and baby will both fall in love with – just try not to steal all of the Baby Shampoo for yourself…

1) The Bestselling Shampoo

Mustela Baby Shampoo

Not all shampoos are created equal, a fact that’s especially apparent when you’re considering how to cleanse your baby’s fine hair. You don’t need something that will create masses of bubbles, because your little one’s hair isn’t likely to be full of oil and dirt and doesn’t need all of that detergent. You just need something mild, refreshing and pleasurable to use – and the Mustela Baby Shampoo achieves all three with gusto.

Aside from its effectiveness, one reason why this formula is so popular is its dreamy fragrance. Soft and musky with hints of orange blossom, it’ll make the top of your baby’s head smell even more wonderful – just ask A Model Recommends.

The need-to-knows: Suitable from birth, no parabens, no phthalates, no phenoxyethanol, high tolerance, hypoallergenic.

2) The New Way to Cleanse

Mustela Physiobebe No Rinse Cleansing Fluid

I love micellar water. You love micellar water. We all love this ultra-gentle fluid for quick and easy cleansing – so isn’t it about time baby got in on the action? Young skin is such a perfect match for the mild cleansing action of these no-rinse waters, especially if you’d like to avoid using wet wipes. The 98% natural formula of the Mustela Physiobebe No Rinse Cleansing Fluid is enriched with a high concentration of glycerin to keep things nice and soft, aloe vera and allantoin to ensure that skin is well respected and (really importantly) it has absolutely no alcohol. It’s genius.

So, why is Physiobebe is a must-try? It’s incredibly easy and effective to use, even when you’re out and about. Simply soak a cotton pad or two and swipe over baby’s skin – even the ultra-sensitive face and nappy areas – and they’ll be feeling fresh in no time. Added bonus: it’s a treat for mum’s skin, too.

The need-to-knows: Suitable from birth, no alcohol, no phthalates, no phenoxyethanol, high tolerance, hypoallergenic.

3) The Bathtime Staple

Mustela Dermo Cleansing

Far and away the best selling Mustela product in the collection is Mustela Dermo Cleansing, an understated body wash that will transform the way you think about cleansing your baby. Once you go low lather, you won’t go back – like the Baby Shampoo, it’s all about doing a really efficient job as gently as possible without adding unnecessary detergents that can be drying for young skin. Oh, and it has the added bonus of smelling and feeling utterly luxurious (that musky orange blossom fragrance really is something!).

When you use something every day, it should be both reliable and a pleasure to use – and Dermo Cleansing really is. If there’s one thing that you try from this list to give you a feel for Mustela, this should be it.

The need-to-knows: Suitable from birth, no parabens, no phthalates, no phenoxyethanol, high tolerance, hypoallergenic.

4) The Nappy Change Hero

Mustela Vitamin Barrier Cream

There’s one area of your baby’s body that needs all of the help it can get when it comes to skincare – their nappy area. With constant nappy changes and exposure to irritating substances, it’s no wonder that their skin can easily succumb to issues, which can lead to major distress for both you and them. Aside from keeping the area as dry as possible and giving your baby a break from their nappy every now and then, you can stop the cycle with a really effective barrier cream – and Mustela just so happens to have a fantastic one in the form of the Vitamin Barrier Cream.

This ultra rich moisturiser cocoons your baby’s nappy area in instant comfort and hydration, with glycerin, avocado oil and sunflower oil to restore balance, alcacea oxeoline to reduce inflammation and zinc to heal the skin. Slather it on after every nappy change and notice the difference.

The need-to-knows: Suitable from birth, no fragrance, no preservatives, high tolerance, hypoallergenic.

5) The Wild Card

Mustela Massage Oil

The use of the term ‘wild card’ is a little tongue-in-cheek here, because for many parents baby massage is a huge part of their daily routine. But if you’re new to the concept and think it’s a bit of an unnecessary extra, I’m here to try to persuade you otherwise!

Taking the time to massage your baby not only relaxes them and aids their digestion, it also a creates a really lovely moment of bonding between the two of you. Our favourite for the job is the ultra-lightweight Mustela Massage Oil crafted from 99% plant oils – there’s not an essential or mineral oil in sight – which helps you to easily glide your hands over baby’s little limbs and moisturise their skin from top to toe.

The need-to-knows: Suitable from birth, no essential oils, no mineral oils, no silicons, no parabens, no phthalates, no phenoxyethanol, high tolerance, hypoallergenic.

Terms and conditions: No purchase necessary. A purchase will not improve your chances of winning. Contest begins 31st March 2016 and ends 7th April 2016. Winners will be selected in a random drawing on or about 7th April 2016. One prize winner will be drawn. If the winner doesn’t respond within 7 days, the competition will be redrawn. Prizes must be accepted as awarded; not redeemable in cash or credit.