Written by Mia.
As a parent, your baby’s delicate skin is a top priority. When choosing the right soap, it’s essential to know what ingredients to avoid to ensure your little one’s skin remains soft, healthy, and irritation-free. Here’s a guide to help you identify common ingredients in baby soap that you should avoid.
PARABENS
Parabens are commonly used as preservatives in many personal care products. They can mimic estrogen in the body and have been linked to hormonal imbalances, breast cancer in women, and developmental issues. Look for labels that say “paraben-free” to avoid these potential risks.
SULFATES
Sodium lauryl (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are detergents that create lather but strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and inflammation. Baby skin is particularly sensitive, so it’s best to choose sulfate-free soaps to keep their skin’s moisture intact.
FORMALDEHYDE AND FORMALDEHYDE-RELEASING AGENTS
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen — meaning it can cause cancer — and some soaps release this harmful chemical as a preservative. Ingredients like DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15 and imidazolidinyl urea can release formaldehyde over time. Checking for these on ingredient lists can help you avoid potential exposure.
FRAGRANCES AND PERFUMES
Fragrances may smell pleasant but can cause allergic reactions, contact dermatitis, and respiratory issues in babies. Many synthetic fragrances contain phthalates, chemicals associated with hormone disruption. Always opt for unscented, fragrance-free, or naturally scented products with essential oils to protect your little one's skin.
PHENOXYETHANOL
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used in various cosmetic products. It can irritate your baby’s skin and cause allergic reactions, especially in sensitive skin. In high concentrations, research has linked it to nervous system effects. Look for products that use safer, more natural preservatives.
PHTHALATES
Phthalates, often found in fragranced products, are linked to developmental and reproductive toxicity. They’re not always listed explicitly, so choosing products labeled “phthalate-free” can help you steer clear of these harmful chemicals.
ARTIFICIAL COLORS
Brightly colored soaps might look fun, but artificial dyes can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Researchers have linked some synthetic dyes, to more severe health issues. Opting for dye-free products ensures your baby’s skin is exposed to fewer unnecessary ingredients.
TRICLOSAN AND TRICLOCARBAN
These antibacterial agents can disrupt your little one’s hormonal system and contribute to antibiotic resistance. They’re unnecessary for keeping your baby clean and healthy, so choosing products without these chemicals is better.
ALCOHOL
High alcohol concentrations can dry out your baby’s skin, leading to irritation and discomfort. Look for soaps that don’t contain certain alcohol or are labeled as gentle and moisturizing.
PROPYLENE GLYCOL
Used as a skin-conditioning agent, propylene glycol can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some babies. It’s best to steer clear of products that list propylene glycol among their ingredients, especially if your young one has sensitive skin.
MINERAL OIL
While it might sound harmless, mineral oil can clog pores and prevent the skin from breathing. It’s derived from petroleum, which isn’t an ideal ingredient for delicate baby skin. Opt for natural oils like olive oil or almond oil as safer alternatives.
TIPS FOR CHOOSING SAFE BABY SOAP
● Read labels thoroughly: Always check the ingredient list and avoid products with harsh chemicals.
● Do your research: Spend some time researching safe and gentle baby products before you head to the store or shop online. This way, you’ll know exactly what to look for without getting overwhelmed with all the options.
● Look for certifications: Products labeled as “organic” baby soap or those with certificates from trusted organizations like USDA Organic, or Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth.
● Patch test: Before using a new soap, do a patch test on a small area of your baby’s skin to ensure there’s no adverse reaction.
● Consult your pediatrician: If in doubt, consult your pediatrician or a dermatologist for recommendations on safe baby soaps.
Motherlove always uses clean, natural ingredients and organic herbs. They never use parabens, sulfates, chemicals, preservatives, or synthetic fragrances. Their new castile soap line is made with clean ingredients, giving parents peace of mind. They offer an unscented baby foaming castile soap that's perfect for newborns, as well as a naturally scented foaming soap and a baby bar soap option.
KNOW WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
By carefully reading labels and being aware of these common ingredients, you can make informed choices prioritizing your baby’s skin health. Look for baby wash and shampoo that use natural, gentle ingredients and are free from these potentially harmful substances. Your baby’s skin will thank you for the extra care and attention you put into selecting the best products. To learn more about what can trigger your baby's sensitive skin, check out this blog.
