how does added fragrance affect a newborn’s skin?
May 24, 2024
So, you want to know how you can best support your newborn's skin? Then you’ve come to the right place! Lately, as a midwife and mum of four, I have noticed a massive boom in products with added fragrances taking over the shelves, and it has really made me reflect on the impact these chemicals can have on our babies. Let’s dive into how added fragrance can impact a newborn’s skin and why it is important to look for safer alternatives for our little ones.
why is a newborn’s skin so delicate?
When compared to adult skin, a newborn’s skin is thinner and more sensitive. The skin’s protective barrier is not fully formed in newborn babies, this means that irritants, allergens and bacteria are able to penetrate the skin easily. Furthermore, newborn skin plays an important role in regulating temperature, protection and initiating the immune system. With these vital functions that the skin performs, it is essential to look for products that will nurture the skin rather than disrupt it.
why is it a concern if baby skincare products have added fragrance?
When you pick up a product from the shelf that states it has added fragrances, what does this actually mean? The term fragrance is often used to group together a range of harsh chemicals to give a certain scent. Some of the chemicals included in added fragrances can pose risks to your baby’s skin and health.
Let’s break this down a little further:
1. hidden chemicals
The term added “fragrance” is a blanket label that is used to group together hundreds of different chemicals. It is not an Australian requirement for manufacturers to disclose what ingredients were used to make that “fragrance”, which means you may be inadvertently exposing your baby to harmful substances.
2. skin irritation
Added fragrances are well known for causing common skin irritations, especially in the sensitive skin of newborns. The chemicals in the added fragrances may strip the skin of its natural oils, increasing dryness, irritation, redness, and itching.
3. allergies
Although the mechanics of allergies remain largely unknown, it is thought that prolonged exposure to fragrances in skincare products can increase the likelihood of a baby developing allergies later in life. This is because their immune system is still developing and, therefore, is more susceptible.
4. respiratory irritation
Just as added fragrances can irritate a baby’s skin, repeated inhalation of fragrance chemicals can irritate the airways and potentially exacerbate existing respiratory problems. Lotions or body washes that contain added fragrance may release these chemicals into the air upon application. This may increase the risk of irritation to your baby.
Given these potential risks, it is no wonder families are choosing products that have natural fragrances when protecting their baby’s skin. Thankfully, b.box body have an amazing range of products that have natural fragrance that come from ingredients like aloe vera, calendula, chamomile, moisturising shea butter and jojoba oil.
Remember, avoiding added fragrances means that you not only reduce the risk of skin irritation, respiratory problems, and allergies but are also creating a safer environment for your baby.
what should you be looking for in skincare for your baby?
1. Soothing, natural ingredients such as Aloe vera, calendula and chamomile that contain anti-inflammatory properties that are perfect for calming skin irritations.
2. Moisturising, natural ingredients such as Kakadu plum, jojoba oil or shea butter that can help lock in baby’s natural moisture without being greasy or clogging their pores.
3. Gentle cleansers that are gentle and non-irritating are essential for delicate newborn skin to prevent stripping away natural oils.
what I choose for my children’s skin as a midwife and mum of 4
b.box body stands out in the crowded market of baby skincare by offering products that don’t contain added fragrances. This is a game-changer for parents who are mindful of potential irritants and allergens that can lurk in conventional baby products. I only use b.box body products on my children to give me the confidence to know my children’s skin is receiving only the gentlest, most natural care.
key products and their benefits
cleanse: baby bath wash
b.box body's gentle foaming cleanser is a godsend for parents. With its all-natural formula enriched with calming essential oils and hydrating botanicals, this cleanser effectively removes impurities while soothing your baby's delicate skin.
hydrate: baby lotion
Keeping your baby's skin soft and supple is essential, and b.box body's lightweight body lotion does just that. Packed with nourishing ingredients, this lotion provides the perfect dose of hydration without any greasy residue. It's a must-have for daily baby care massages and nappy changes, leaving your little one's skin silky smooth.
nourish: baby oil
Whether giving your baby a gentle massage, moisturising their skin, or tackling cradle cap, b.box body's multipurpose oil has you covered. Nourish oil is formulated to nourish and protect your baby's delicate skin, providing relief and comfort whenever needed. It's a true multitasker that every parent should have on hand.
protect: nappy barrier cream
Nappy rash is every parent's nightmare, but b.box body's zinc-based nappy cream offers much-needed relief. With anti-inflammatory properties, this cream soothes irritated skin and forms a protective barrier against moisture, preventing further discomfort. It's a gentle yet effective solution for keeping your baby's bottom happy and healthy
soothe: soap free bath soak
Transform bath time into a calming, hydrating experience with b.box body's mineral baby wash. This gentle formula is specially designed to nourish your baby's skin while creating those beautiful bonding moments. I also love a sneaky bath myself in the amazing b.box body soothe!
By opting for fragrance-free products like those offered by b.box body, you're proactively choosing to protect your baby's delicate skin from potential harm
conclusion
In conclusion, as parents, it's our responsibility to make informed choices about the products we use on our newborn babies' delicate skin. By understanding the potential risks associated with added fragrance in skincare products and opting for fragrance-free alternatives, we can help safeguard our little ones and promote their health and well-being from the very start.
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Written By Lauren Brenton Endorsed Midwife and Founder of One Mama Midwife Pty Ltd I’m Loz and I’m an Endorsed Midwife who runs Antenatal Classes in the Sutherland Shire. I have completed a Bachelor of Midwifery and a Master of Midwifery. My favourite area is in the labour ward, this is where you can find me most days. One Mama Midwife came about in the height of Covid in 2020, when so many women were missing out on the chance to have antenatal education. Aimed at empowering you with the tools you require to have the pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey that you want to have, with advice and recommendations you can trust. |