The difference between natural and non-natural baby care products
Many baby products claim that they are completely natural, such as 'made with plant extracts' or 'lavender scented'. Most of the time only a small percentage of ingredients are in fact natural and the rest of the product contains synthetic fillers. To offer your baby the best that nature has to offer, become an ingredient reader.
Ingredients to avoid:
- SLS or ALS - these harsh foaming agents are found in baby washes, baby shampoos, baby bath foam and are drying to skin and can irritate the mucous membranes
- Petroleum Jelly - a byproduct of gasoline refinement, this jelly like substance is known for lubricating and moisturizing cracked skin.
- Fragrance - most fragrances are synthetic scents that are made in laboratories with toxic ingredients such as pthalates, which have recently found to be disruptive to the endocrine system and related hormones.
- Talc - the main ingredient in baby powder, is a mined mineral that is produced by the mining of talc rocks and then processed by crushing, drying and milling. The processing eliminates a number of trace minerals from the talc, but does not separate minute fibers which are very similar to asbestos and can cause irritation to the lungs.
Look for these natural ingredients instead:
- Decyl Glucoside - Obtained from 100% renewable vegetable origin, this natural foaming agent is ideal for use in baby soaps & shampoos.
- Shea & Coco butters - Shea & coco butters are natural fatty acids that are high in Vitamin E and antioxidants, providing moisture and protection to delicate skin types. It is widely used in natural cosmetics, lotions & balms. Both butters are edible and are used in food preparation.
- Essential Oils - in aromatherapy, a number of essential oils derived from plants like chamomile, calendula and lavender are used therapeutically in diluted mixtures such as oils, lotions and soaps to soothe and calm skin irritations. Although all pure essential oils are natural, some may be irritating to baby's delicate skin so be sure to check the safety before using these oils and always dilute them to 0.2% for use on babies.
- Corn & Rice starch - derived from plants, these natural powders provide the same benefits as talc without the associated risks.
Please email us your baby care questions and we'll do our best to help you!
