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  • How To Identify The Ingredients You Should Avoid In Baby Skincare

Are you wondering about the ingredients you should avoid in baby skincare? With so many things listed in every baby product, it can be hard to keep track of which ingredients are helpful and which ones to steer clear of.

Fortunately, we can help you make an informed choice for your baby’s skincare needs and better understand why many parents now opt for options like natural suncare solutions, natural daily moisturiser formulas and natural baby sunscreen products. Read on to learn what to look out for when shopping for baby skincare products.

 

Step #1: Identify if there are parabens

Parabens, primarily used as preservatives, have a dominant presence in many beauty and personal care products. Drawn from their ability to extend shelf life and prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, they’ve been the industry’s go-to preservatives for quite some time. From lotions to shampoos, parabens are pervasive in the wide range of products we use daily, especially when it comes to baby products. 

Be aware, however, that parabens have been associated with hormonal imbalances and some other concerns, so it’s best to avoid products that contain them altogether. 

Step #2: Consider the presence of phthalates

Ever wondered what makes your favourite lotion or perfume smell heavenly? The credit, in part, goes to phthalates! Reusable and flexible, phthalates serve as solvents, helping to entwine the aromatic molecules into the product base. They aid in maintaining the longevity of the scent, ensuring your fragrance lasts longer. 

The downside? Continuous usage of products loaded with phthalates might not be as heavenly for your baby’s health. Phthalates have been linked to hormonal upheavals and allergies. They tend to mimic hormones, meddling with their regular functioning, leading to disruptions. 

Step #3: Scrutinise the fragrances

Fragrances are prevalently found in many of our everyday items, from the soap we use to wash our hands to the detergent that cleanses our clothes. Notably, baby products are no exception to this rule. 

Manufacturers imbue fragrances into various baby products, ranging from wipes and lotions to shampoos. The intention behind this practice is simple – to make the product more appealing to parents. A delicate, fresh scent is often associated with cleanliness; hence, it’s not surprising why brands incorporate these fragrances.


Be aware, however, that some chemicals hiding under the ‘fragrance’ umbrella have been linked to allergies and hormone disruption. As consumers and especially as parents, vigilance is necessary when scrutinising products we use for our little ones. 

Step #4: Evaluate the use of sulphates

Commonly found in a variety of baby skincare products, sulphates are primarily responsible for that satisfying lather you love so much in your favourite shampoo or body wash. 

Sulphates are essentially detergents, often made from petroleum or plant sources. They effectively bind oil and water together, making them invaluable for removing grime and dirt. However, despite their wide-ranging applications, sulphates can have potential drawbacks for skin health. 

While the foaming action of sulphates can feel luxurious on the skin, they have the potential to lead to irritation. This downside tends to be more noticeable among babies and individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to allergies. Being detergents, sulphates can be rather aggressive. They can strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry, itchy and irritated. 

While not everyone experiences these effects, it’s worth keeping this in mind, particularly if your baby has a pre-existing skin condition or if you notice sudden changes in their skin after introducing a new product that includes sulphates. Ideally, it’s best to opt for natural alternatives. 

Step #5: Assess the use of talc

Talc is a staple ingredient often found in baby powders owing to its ability to absorb moisture. Its smooth texture facilitates easy application on delicate baby skin to keep it dry and comfortable. However, as much as we appreciate its functionality, it’s essential to be aware of the potential health risks associated with its usage. 

The primary cause of concern around the use of talc arises from its potential contamination with asbestos. Both talc and asbestos are naturally occurring minerals, often found in close proximity to the earth. If not properly refined and purified, talc can contain trace amounts of asbestos, a well-known carcinogen.

With that, it’s worth going through the list of ingredients on your baby product’s label just to see if talc is present in it. 


Key Points to Remember

  • Understanding the ingredients in baby skincare products is crucial. Be aware of parabens, phthalates, fragrances, sulphates, and talc, as these can pose potential health risks such as hormonal imbalances, allergies, skin irritation, and even contamination concerns.
  • Parabens are commonly used to extend the shelf life of skincare products by preventing bacterial growth. However, their association with hormonal imbalances makes it essential to scrutinise their presence in baby products.
  • Phthalates help in maintaining the longevity of fragrances in lotions and perfumes. Despite their benefits, they have been linked to hormonal disruptions and allergies, making it important to consider their impact on your baby’s health.
  • Sulphates are detergents that create a lathering effect in shampoos and body washes. While effective in cleaning, they can strip natural oils from the skin, leading to dryness and irritation, particularly in sensitive baby skin.
  • Talc is used in baby powders for its moisture-absorbing properties. However, due to potential contamination with asbestos, a known carcinogen, it's important to check for talc in product ingredients and opt for safer alternatives when possible.

As a caring partner in suncare, Little Urchin leverages potent natural ingredients to develop broad-spectrum, cruelty-free, reef-safe products. Upholding our commitment to a sustainable future, we blend our love for the globe with community nurturing, striving to ensure the health and well-being of future generations.