When it comes to caring for children, parents often choose skincare and haircare products that promise softness, gentleness, or long-lasting fragrance. However, not all of these products are as safe as they appear. Children’s skin is far more delicate than adults’, which means it absorbs chemicals more easily. According to Dr Navjot Arora, Consultant Dermatologist, Dermaheal Skin and Clinic, Dwarka, New Delhi, some of the everyday products parents use on their kids may contain harmful ingredients that can impact their health in the long run.
Also Read: Children’s Health: These Common Skincare Habits Could Be Damaging Your Child’s Skin
Chemicals Parents Should Watch Out For
Children’s skin barrier is still developing, making them more vulnerable to irritants and toxins. “Certain ingredients commonly found in skincare and hair products can harm children,” says Dr Arora. These include:
| Chemicals | How it affects children |
| Parabens | preservatives that may disrupt hormones |
| Phthalates | often hidden in fragrances, linked to hormonal imbalance |
| Formaldehyde-releasing agents | used in some hair products as preservatives |
| Sulphates (like SLS) | found in shampoos and body washes, which can strip natural oils |
| Oxybenzone | a chemical sunscreen agent known to cause skin irritation and hormonal concerns |
| Synthetic dyes and artificial fragrances | common allergy and irritation triggers |
How These Chemicals Enter A Child’s Body
Most parents assume that what’s applied on the skin stays on the surface, but that’s not always true. Children’s skin acts almost like a sponge, especially in thinner or damaged areas, allowing chemicals to penetrate more easily, explains Dr Arora. These substances may also be inhaled from sprays or accidentally ingested if a child touches treated skin and then puts their hands in their mouth. Over time, even tiny amounts can accumulate inside the body.
Long-Term Health Risks Of Early Exposure
While a one-time exposure may not cause harm, repeated use of products containing harmful chemicals could have lasting effects. “Certain chemicals, like parabens and phthalates, are known endocrine disruptors, which means they interfere with natural hormone functions,” notes Dr Arora. Prolonged exposure may contribute to:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Early onset of puberty
- Fertility issues later in life
- Developmental concerns in growing children
- Increased risk of allergies, asthma, and even certain cancers in adulthood
These risks underline why careful product selection is essential for young children.
Products That Require Extra Caution
Parents often assume that all products labelled “baby-safe” or “mild” are trustworthy, but that’s not always the case. Dr Arora advises parents to pay special attention to:
- Baby lotions and moisturisers
- Shampoos and conditioners
- Body washes and soaps
- Sunscreens (especially those with oxybenzone)
- Hair sprays and styling products
Products with long ingredient lists filled with chemical names, especially those boasting “long-lasting fragrance”, usually contain hidden harmful compounds.
Also Read: 8 Tips You Should Follow For Baby Skincare
Safer, Child-Friendly Alternatives
The good news is that parents don’t need to eliminate skincare and haircare products altogether—just make wiser choices. “Parents can also look for products certified by dermatologists or those labelled as hypoallergenic and paediatrician-tested. When in doubt, simpler is better—using fewer products with minimal ingredients reduces risk,” recommends Dr Arora.
Safer alternatives include:
- Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- Mild cleansers made with natural oils like coconut or olive oil.
- Shampoos with gentle ingredients such as aloe vera or oatmeal extracts.
- Dermatologist-certified or paediatrician-tested products with minimal ingredients.
When it comes to kids’ skincare, less is often more. Using fewer products with simpler formulations reduces exposure to unnecessary chemicals.
Conclusion
Children’s skin is more sensitive and absorbent, making them particularly vulnerable to harsh chemicals found in many everyday products. By learning to read labels and choosing safer alternatives, parents can protect their children from potential long-term health risks. Remember, the simpler the product, the safer it usually is for a child.