Natural babycare
More and more parents are becoming aware of environmental issues and the amount of chemicals that exist in baby products. A baby's skin is 5 times thinner and more delicate than an adult, and therefore easily absorbs what we, as parents put on it. Did you know that 60% of a product applied to a baby's skin is absorbed into their bodies? Do not believe a baby product is pure just because the label says so. Check the label to see if it contains lots of chemicals.
1. Chemical ingredients
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)
A detergent which is included as a foaming agent. It is found in shampoos, soaps, toothpaste, washing powder, cleaning products. There are lots of derivatives of SLS: SLES, DEA, TEA. Their action and effects are similar.
Parabens
A group of chemicals widely used as preservatives in toiletries. They are also used as food additives.
Ammonium Laureth Sulphate
A detergent derived from plant or animal sources; not as toxic as SLS.
Urea
Used as a preservative.
Phthalates
Chemicals used as solvents and fragrance enhancers. Also included in paints and pesticides! Current legislation states that manufacturers do not have to state whether phthalates are present in their product fragrances or not.
Synthetic fragrances
Synthetic fragrances can contain up to 1000 chemical ingredients.
Triclosan
Used as antibacterial agent.
Petrochemicals
Includes propylene glycol which is a ‘wetting' agent. Used in lotions, and also in anti freeze!
2. Natural ingredients
Coconut
Moisturizer. Helps prevent bacterial, viral and fungal infections.
Olive oil
Naturally softens & soothes skin
Beeswax
Hydrates skin and acts as a natural preservative.
Calendula / Marigold
Helps ease inflammation. Sooths and heals cuts, bruises and minor skin irritations. Antioxidant and antibacterial.
Comfrey
Healing herb which has moisturizing properties. Great for cuts, sores, burns, swollen tissue.
Aloe Vera
Hydrating and anti inflammatory properties, helps heal wounds.
Tea Tree
Antiseptic, germicidal, antibacterial, fungicide.
Lavender
Antiseptic and pain reliever. Aids relaxation.
Rosemary
Herb used as a disinfectant, tonic and mild analgesic.
Hemp
Rich in omega 3 and 6 and is absorbed straight into skin giving all sorts of benefits.
Camomile
Relaxant and essential oil that helps heal skin irritations.
3. Washable wipe solutions
You can use a variety of solutions with your wipes, but plain water is best for newborns as they have particularly sensitive skin. Otherwise try the solutions below (as with any new product used on your baby, do a patch test first). You should change the solution every few days as it doesn't contain preservatives.
Simple solution
Camomile solution (great for sore bottoms)
Lavender / Tea Tree solution
There are three ways to use the solutions and you will find a method that suits you best:
If you want to spare your baby from that cold wipe feeling, store your solution in a flask ready to use throughout the day.
