Mainstream baby products contain a myriad of toxic ingredients. It’s a multi-million-dollar industry that promises to care for your precious new life – but the products are loaded with ingredients that you really want to avoid.
6 ingredients to say a hard NO to:
1.Talc
This powdered mineral is added to baby powder as a drying agent, but it’s a known lung irritant and may also be carcinogenic. Some companies do offer talc-free baby powders, but there are still problems with many of the ingredients on their lists.
A great alternative is to try our 100% pure french Argyle White Clay Powder – it is safe, cleansing and has a gentle drying effect.
2. Fragrance
The problem with ‘fragrance’ is that it’s a catch-all term for many mystery ingredients. These ingredients are also generally made of petroleum-derived synthetic chemicals. Baby products are often sold as having a ‘natural’ fragrance when that is far from the truth. Always check ingredients before you buy. The effects of chemical fragrances are long lasting and can cause respiratory, neurological, skin and eye damage.
Our Rose, Lavender and Chamomile Roman oils not only smell incredible, they are 100% natural and completely safe for babies.
3. Propylene glycol
This chemical is a liquid used in many products to help them maintain their consistency, moisture and texture. It is easily absorbed by the skin and helps to open up the pores and let the other chemicals in. It is used in wiper fluid and to de-ice airplanes. It is often found in baby wipes and recent studies have found it be responsible for allergic reactions.
Also, look out for polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) on labels.
Or, simply use certified organic golden Jojoba oil. As a liquid wax, it effectively cleanses and protects even the most sensitive skin.
4. Mineral oil
Most baby oils are is essentially made of mineral oil mixed with fragrance, which is a nasty combination. Mineral oil is a cheap by-product of petroleum processing and acts as a plastic wrap on the skin, inhibiting the skin’s natural ability to release toxins.
We suggest choosing natural and nourishing oils that are both certified organic and virgin, such as coconut or sweet almond. Or try our Rose & Chamomile baby oil for the ultimate in gentle, nurturing baby care.
5. Parabens
Stay away from anything with ‘paraben’ on the label, as well as benzoic acid and propylester. Parabens are a class of widely used preservatives in cosmetic products. They have been identified as neurotoxins and are linked to reproductive toxicity, hormone disruption and skin irritation.
We suggest choosing good quality, Absolute Essential grade essential oils, like lavender or palmarosa, that can act as gentle, natural preservatives. These will help inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, mould and yeast. They also stop the process of oxidisation.
6. Triclosan
Many products labelled as ‘antibacterial’ likely contain triclosan, which is a carcinogenic endocrine disruptor that is also harmful to the environment. Although it makes sense to want to keep a baby away from unnecessary bacteria, it’s easy to go too far. By raising our babies in chemically clean, sterile environments, we inhibit their ability to create natural resistance and immunity. This increases the likelihood of allergies and leaves antibacterial treatments less effective when we truly need them.
Pure essential oils such as lavender, lemon, tea tree, and thyme work to enhance the immune system while also providing a positive antibacterial effect.
Keep the toxic hands of big pharma off your baby. We recommend sticking with natural, nourishing and edible ingredients, such as straight organic carrier oils (sweet almond, jojoba), fragrance-free soap and baby safe essential oils such as…ours.
Check out our Baby and Child range here.