As parents, we always strive to provide the best care for our little ones, especially when it comes to choosing the right products for their delicate skin. However, the world of baby products can be overwhelming to the layman, with a plethora of options available in the market. While many products claim to be safe and gentle for babies, it's essential to be mindful of the ingredients used in these products to ensure the safety and well-being of our precious little ones. We spoke to our expert Rajesh Vohra, CEO, Artsana India (Chicco), in assistance with Chicco Research Centre, who listed the ingredients that should be avoided in baby care products.
Ingredients To Be Avoided In Baby Care Products
Phenoxyethanol
One of the ingredients to avoid in baby skincare products is phenoxyethanol. This synthetic preservative is commonly used in skincare and cosmetic products as a substitute for parabens.
As per the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (under the European Medicine Agency), phenoxyethanol is deemed safe for all consumers, including children of any age, when utilised as a preservative at a maximum concentration of 1% in cosmetic products. It should, however, be avoided in baby care products due to the permeability of the skin and its sensitivity. Therefore, it's best to opt for products that are free from phenoxyethanol to minimise the risk of adverse effects on your baby's delicate skin.
Parabens
“These synthetic preservatives are used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mould in skincare products. However, parabens may disrupt hormone function and potentially lead to developmental and reproductive issues. To ensure the safety of your baby, it's best to choose products free from parabens”, said Vohra.
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Sulphates
Sulphates, such as Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES), are commonly used as foaming agents in shampoos, body washes, and bubble baths. Sulphates can create a rich lather, but they can also strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness and irritation, especially in babies. Look for sulphate-free options to gently cleanse your baby's skin without causing any harm.
Dyes
Many baby products contain dyes to enhance their appearance. However, these additives can be irritating to the skin and may trigger allergic reactions in babies with sensitive skin. Opt for products that are dye-free to minimise the risk of irritation and ensure the safety of your baby's skin.
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Steering Clear of Tropolone and Alcohol
In addition to phenoxyethanol, there are several other artificial ingredients commonly found in baby products that should be avoided. These include tropolone and alcohol.
“Tropolone is often used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products but can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Alcohol, particularly denatured alcohol or ethanol, is commonly used as a solvent or astringent in skincare products but can be drying and irritating to delicate baby skin”, added Vohra.
Imbibing Naturally Sourced Oils — A great alternative
It becomes important to choose the right products when it comes to caring for your baby's delicate skin. Instead of relying on artificial ingredients, it's best to opt for baby products formulated with natural ingredients.
“You should look for ingredients like chamomile, calendula, apricot, oats, peach, hibiscus, almond milk, and murumuru butter, which are known for their hydrating, calming, and nourishing properties. These gentle and soothing elements are ideal for sensitive baby skin, helping to protect it from irritation and allergic reactions. By being mindful of the ingredients in baby products, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your little one while providing effective care”, added Vohra.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if your child is dealing with any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]