Protect your baby's delicate skin: Look for natural-phenoxyethanol free products

Babies have sensitive skin, so it's important to use products that won't irritate or hurt them. (Image: Canva)

Making sure your babies are healthy involves a lot of things, and choosing the right skincare products is important. There are so many options out there, so it can be hard to know what's best. Some brands say their products are safe, but it's smart to check the ingredients to make sure they're okay for your babies.

These can cause problems for their skin. It's also a good idea to choose products with natural ingredients and avoid anything that might cause allergies.

Knowing what's in the products we use on your babies helps us make smart choices. That way, we can keep their skin healthy and happy while prioritising their comfort and well-being.

Look for phenoxyethanol free products for baby's delicate skin

Many baby products contain a preservative called Phenoxyethanol, says Rajesh Vohra, CEO of Artsana India (Chicco), in collaboration with the Chicco research centre. While it helps products last longer, there's some concern that it might not suit a baby's sensitive skin.

According to the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (under the European Medicine Agency), Phenoxyethanol is safe for all consumers - including children of all ages - when used as a preservative in cosmetic products at a maximum concentration of 1%. To be on the safe side, look for products that are free of Phenoxyethanol. There are plenty of gentle options out there that will keep your little one's skin happy and healthy!

Besides Phenoxyethanol, there are other artificial ingredients used in making baby products. These include:

Parabens: Preservatives that is commonly used in skincare to keep products fresh. While they help prevent bacteria and mold growth, some research suggests they might interfere with hormones, says Vohra. Because a baby's body is still developing, it's best to choose paraben-free products whenever possible. This minimizes any potential risks and keeps your little one's skin happy.

Sulfates: Like those long names you see on shampoo bottles (sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS, sodium laureth sulfate or SLES for short), are what make bubbles in bath time fun. But the problem is, they can be a little too good at their job. These ingredients can wash away your baby's natural oils, leaving their skin dry and irritated, says Vohra. Since babies, especially those with sensitive skin, have delicate moisture barriers, it's best to choose sulfate-free cleansers. They'll gently clean your little one without the risk of irritation, keeping bath time fun and gentle on their skin.

Dyes: Baby products often come with fun colours, but it might not be the best for your little one's delicate skin. Dyes can irritate the skin and even trigger allergies in babies with sensitive skin. To keep bath time gentle and safe, look for dye-free options. Your baby's soft skin will thank you for it!

Avoiding tropolone and alcohol: Apart from Phenoxyethanol, there are other synthetic ingredients frequently present in baby products that should be steered clear of. These include tropolone and alcohol. Tropolone is commonly used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care items but can trigger skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in sensitive baby skin. Alcohol, particularly denatured alcohol, or ethanol is often used as a solvent or astringent in skincare products but can cause dryness and irritation to delicate baby skin.

What to look for

Instead of artificial ingredients, let's embrace the power of nature! Look for baby products packed with gentle, plant-based goodness like chamomile, nourishing calendula, apricot, oats, peach, hibiscus, almond milk, and murumuru butter. These natural superstars are known for their hydrating, calming, and nurturing properties, perfect for keeping your baby's delicate skin happy and healthy.