This article’s last intention is to cause fear or panic. As you may know by now, we believe knowledge is the strongest power one can have. And luckily, one doesn’t need to be born with extraterrestrial genetic mutations like superman to gain that power. A little bit of curiosity can go a really long way, especially when it comes to your health and your little one’s. Taking the initiative to better understand what you’re putting on your body is already a great start. There are many great, questionable and horrible ingredients out there, so maybe it would be an easier start to go through the really bad ones first. 

Here’s a list of the major 6 bad ingredients you should look out for in cosmetic products that you use on your little ones.

1. Sulfates - The bubbles & foaming makers 

Sulfates are among the most widely used ingredients in hair and skin care products because they increase foaming and are effective at removing dirt and oil. However, they are also irritants for sensitive skin and have been linked to irritation in the eyes and respiratory system. To find out whether your product includes sulfates, look for ingredients such as sodium stearyl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium coco sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate (SLES or sodium lauryl ether sulfate), ammonium laureth sulfate (ALS), or sodium lauryl sulfoacetate (SLSA).

2. Parabens

Parabens are used in a LOT of skin and hair products due to their preservative properties, as well as the fact that they are a cost-effective ingredient that prohibits microbial growth. However, you’ll want to completely avoid using Parabens on your baby because they can irritate the skin, and even worse, disrupt your baby’s hormones. They’ve even been linked to increased cases of breast cancer, so this is one ingredient you definitely want to steer clear of. 

3. Formaldehyde Donors

Formaldehyde, a carcinogenic compound found in tobacco products, is one of the most harmful ingredients commonly found in hair and skin care products. It can irritate the skin, respiratory system, and possibly even cause severe allergic reactions in babies. Avoid products containing formaldehyde, methanal, methyl aldehyde, methylene oxide, methylene glycol, methanediol, formalin, and formic aldehyde to protect your little one.

4. Phthalates

While phthalates do not necessarily harm the skin directly like some of the other harmful ingredients used in many products, they have been linked to hormone imbalances, which could have long term effects, especially on babies and toddlers. Phthalates can appear on product labels under a number of names, including DCP, DMP, DEP, DEHP, BzBP, DBP, DNOP, DiDP and DnHP, so be wary of these!

5. Dyes

Artificial dyes used in skin and hair products can also have negative effects on the skin. Especially for babies, whose skin is very sensitive. Using products that contain artificial dyes can cause irritation, blocked pores, inflammation, and some of them are even carcinogenic. 

6. Harmful  Fragrances

We all know and love that baby smell, however, fragrances that are not formulated specifically for babies’ safety are riddled with allergenic chemicals that could cause annoying rashes and itchy skin. Always make sure that the fragrances used in the products you choose are safe for babies and free of harmful chemicals.

Luckily, we’ve created a line of products that are 100% safe, clean & gentle for you & your little ones. 

 All our formulas are:

Some superstar ingredients you can safely use on your baby or toddler:

1. Coconut Oil

This tropical superfood doubles as an ideal skin care ingredient for dry skin types, and is a natural, safe ingredient for babies and toddlers. It helps treat mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (aka eczema) in children. This is why coconut oil is definitely a goodie for hair and dry skin.

2. Glycerin

A natural moisturizer that is naturally abundant in our skin. It’s a super common, safe, effective molecule used for more than 50 years, and is one of the safest moisturizers for children.

3. Aloe Vera Extract

Aloe vera is a magical plant that is chock-full of nutrients and goodies that are great for your skin! It is widely used for its moisturizing, emollient and anti-inflammatory properties, and the juice itself is also healthy to consume due to its rich vitamin content.

4. Olive Oil

Olive oil is another moisturizing ingredient that is natural, safe, and extremely effective for babies and toddlers. It is rich in antioxidants, which allows it to deeply moisturize even the most sensitive of skin safely and effectively.

5. Avocado Oil

Extracted from delicious avocados, avocado oil is an incredible moisturizer and conditioner which acts to smooth & soothe hair & skin and leave it feeling soft and healthy.

Always do your research

This list is far from comprehensive, Our best advice is to always do your research, read the product label and try to look up any ingredients that seem unfamiliar to you.

Asking other parents about the best skin and hair products they’ve used is also a great way to check whether you should use or avoid a specific product.