better for you & the planet

The Importance of Natural Products for Babies & Kiddies

Posted by Chanel Dankert on

Babies & kids are extremely vulnerable to the harmful effects of environmental pollutants and toxic chemicals. Unfortunately, many baby and child care products in the market contain problematic chemicals that aren’t gentle to children’s delicate skin, scalp, and overall health.

Reasons to use natural skincare products on your kids
 
1. A CHILD’S SKIN IS MORE SENSITIVE TO HARMFUL ELEMENTS
 
According to data collected by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), infants up to 2 years old are, on average, 10 times more vulnerable to carcinogens than adults. In addition, children ages 2 to 15 are thrice more at risk to carcinogenic elements than adults are. Thus, parents should consider only the mildest products, apply small amounts, and avoid chemicals that experts have labelled toxic to humans.

The following is a partial list of toxic chemicals commonly used in personal care products for babies and children:

  • Parabens. These are artificial preservatives included in skin products. Parabens have been linked to some forms of breast cancer as well as tumours. They can also mimic hormonal processes in the body.
  • Phthalates. These are chemicals found in creams, soaps, and other personal care products. Research reveals that phthalates can damage the kidneys, lungs, liver, and reproductive organs.
  • Artificial Fragrances. These toxic chemicals may cause cancer, nervous system diseases, allergies, birth defects, and more.
  • Sulfates. Scientifically known as SLS, these ingredients are found in baby soaps and cleansers, and are responsible for giving bubbles and foam. Sulfates have been associated with cancer, skin irritation, and disruption of the endocrine system.
  • Dyes. The ingredients are used to give colour to a certain product and have been known to cause chromosomal damage, tumours, lymphomas, asthma, allergies, and skin problems.

2. BABIES & CHILDREN ARE GENERALLY MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO INFECTIONS

A baby's skin is more permeable than adults as it’s essentially ’brand new.’ It’s not yet completely developed with lots of growing to do and they are less capable of defending themselves against microbes, allergens, and toxic chemicals and thus more prone to infections from pathogens and bacteria as well as reactions to harsh chemicals.

When exposed to unsafe personal care products, children may easily succumb to infections, illnesses, or even irreversible damage.

3. YOUR BABIES SKIN NEEDS HYDRATION

Babies’ skin gets very dry, very easily. Using products full of chemicals defeats the purpose of keeping the skin properly hydrated. Many of the chemical ingredients in a baby’s skincare are drying to the skin. Rather, look for gentle, nourishing, natural ingredients that will moisturise skin the right way.
Unfortunately the chlorine and chemicals in our municipal water also strips the natural oils in our skin, so keeping you and your baby's skin hydrated is incredibly important to combat the effects of chemicals lurking in our environment.

4. NATURAL PRODUCTS ARE BETTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

One of my biggest concerns for many parents is wondering what state the planet will be left in by the time our children are grown up and having babies of their own. We can all do our part to preserve planet earth for future generations so using products that are natural, organic, biodegradable and recyclable are more environmentally friendly.
 
Children and babies are not yet fully aware of the harsh realities of the real world. They might not yet realize the potential dangers of their favourite bubble gum-scented shampoo or preferred baby scented powder on their little bodies and the planet. It's the ultimate task of parents to make them understand the importance of natural ingredients.
 
Bush Baby ~ Considering the environment for the next generation
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