New parents are constantly attentive to their baby's every move. Beyond feeding, diaper changes, and other daily care, how their baby sleeps is another major concern that many new parents find both important and uncertain. This is because proper sleeping positions can help babies develop more attractive facial features, potentially influencing their appearance throughout life.So what is the best sleeping position for babies?
Sleeping for a Better Facial Shape
Sleeping for a Better Facial Shape
Chinese parents often habitually place babies in the supine position (on their backs). Consequently, the facial structure of many Chinese people tends to be flat and less defined, often described as a "flat, round face." Historically, such facial features were considered auspicious, believed to signify the potential for high-ranking official positions.Western parents, however, commonly place babies to sleep on their stomachs. The prolonged pressure on both cheeks creates a more defined facial contour, resulting in a more attractive appearance.
Babies with prominent cheekbones may develop even higher cheekbones if they consistently sleep on their stomachs, resulting in an unattractive facial shape. For such babies, sleeping on either side is recommended. This prevents flattening of the skull and avoids pressure on the forehead and occipital bone, helping to develop a more favorable facial contour.
Babies with less prominent cheekbones whose parents have flatter facial structures may benefit from tummy sleeping. This position can slightly accentuate cheekbones, adding dimensionality to the face, though it may also make the face appear narrower and longer. Therefore, tummy sleeping is more suitable for babies with less prominent cheekbones and rounder faces.
Sleeping for a Smaller Face
We often talk about women with petite faces, highlighting how a smaller face is a key feature of beauty. Having babies sleep on their sides can prevent excessive jawbone development and avoid overly large cheeks that create a square jawline.When adopting a side-sleeping position, alternate sides regularly rather than fixing on one side to avoid asymmetrical head and face shapes. Also, take care not to deform the ear cartilage.Alternating between prone positions on both sides can compress the cheekbones, preventing excessive development and highlighting a high nasal bridge with straight lines along the mouth and jaw. Sleeping on the back helps facial features develop more symmetrically and evenly, resulting in a delicate face.
Sleeping Positions Shape Appearance
Preventing Prominent Ears
When placing your baby on their side, always gently smooth their ears backward first. Newborn ears are very soft; even if pressed, the baby won't feel pain and won't cry. Mothers should know this prevents developing unattractive prominent ears.
Preventing Crossed Eyes
If babies consistently sleep on their backs, their eyes fixate on the limited space above them for extended periods. Over time, this can lead to crossed eyes. Parents are advised against prolonged back sleeping and should avoid hanging toys fixed above the baby's crib to prevent this condition.
Head Helmets and Shape Correction
While various sleeping positions can generally reshape a baby's head, if the shape shows no improvement after several months, a doctor may recommend an infant head helmet to help correct the skull's form. These helmets provide even pressure across the head, allowing the fontanelles to grow normally.
Helmet therapy typically begins when babies are 3-6 months old, a period when skull bones remain pliable and brain development is most rapid. Babies must wear the helmet consistently except during cleaning. The helmet requires weekly adjustments. Treatment generally lasts about one year, though older infants may require extended wear.