A baby’s skin is soft, smooth and incredibly delicate. While these characteristics evoke our affection and nurturing tendencies, they also mean that using the wrong baby products can easily trigger a cascade of allergic reactions. 

Since a baby’s skin doesn’t develop a full protective barrier until they are two years old, it remains thin and more vulnerable to external aggressors until then. It is therefore crucial for parents to know how to select the best babycare items for their infants to ensure their skin remains smooth, supple and free of rashes and irritation.

In this blog, mothercare takes a look at the defining factors that make a safe and suitable babycare and bath product. Additionally, we provide some helpful recommendations that fit right into the bill. Read on to find out what they are!

Dermatologically Tested

A large portion of baby products, where safety is of utmost importance, have been tested by dermatologists, paediatricians or midwives. Companies market these products as “dermatologically/paediatrician/midwife-tested”, or sometimes “approved”, asserting that they have undergone assessment and validation in the presence of industry professionals before being made available for sale. Skincare related products are often reviewed on qualities such as safety, suitability and potential short- and long-term effects. For a start, try Pigeon’s Natural Botanical Baby Powder, which offers a pH balanced and dermatologist-tested cornstarch-based powder formula that keeps skin at once comfortable and nourished! 

Suitable from Birth

 

Not all baby products are suitable for infants. Although many products are marketed for babies’ use, newborn skin is considered much more prone to inflammation and dryness, and may require special care compared to the skin of older infants. 

When selecting babycare essentials, perform research to ensure that they can be used on newborns, such as with mothercare’s All We Know baby lotion. Unlike regular skincare products, these specialised formulae are tailored to the delicate needs of infants and their growth.

Natural and Organic Ingredients

Natural and organic ingredients are beneficial for the skin due to their non-toxic, gentle and nourishing properties. These labels usually denote that the products are of botanical origin. Do note that natural and organic are different terms and should not be used interchangeably. While “natural” refers to products with substances extracted from natural sources, “organic” refers to products that are cultivated from chemical-free processes. Aside from skincare, this can also apply to fabrics such as towels and face cloths.

Fragrance Free

 

Synthetic fragrances have been associated with increased skin redness and discomfort in individuals with sensitive skin. Therefore, it’s advisable for parents to invest in products that are free from these irritants, or opt for lightly scented alternatives that are certified safe for children’s use. mothercare hosts a range of unscented toiletries from shampoos, lotions to creams for complete peace of mind.

Moisturising and Soothing

The structure of a baby’s skin makes it more susceptible to dryness, resulting in breakage and uneven textures. That is where using moisturising and soothing solutions come in to combat flare-ups that cause redness and itchiness, preferably before they even set in. 

Moisturisers containing ingredients like olive oil, shea butter and oat are particularly effective at protecting the skin’s moisture barrier and calming sensitive skin. Check out Aleva Naturals’ Daily Soothing Moisturiser, which carries all of these components! Meanwhile, glycerin serves as a humectant that draws moisture to the skin, and zinc oxide unleashes anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent infections, as found in Mustela’s Vitamin Barrier Cream.

Hypoallergenic

 

The definition of “hypoallergenic” has become rather contentious because allergic reactions vary from person to person. However, it’s still a good practice to seek out products labelled hypoallergenic or suitable for sensitive skin, as they’re less likely to trigger allergies.

Many hypoallergenic products are formulated to contain fewer allergens. In the context of bathing, this translates to a reduced risk of sensitivities alongside a gentle and satisfying cleanse. Take mothercare’s All We Know Shampoo as an example – a hypoallergenic hair wash solution that leaves the hair and scalp clean, soft and irritation-free!

Soft and Gentle

Gentle baby skincare products are carefully formulated to be mild and non-irritating, while soft fabrics like 100% bamboo and cotton materials are crafted to be non-abrasive and comfortable. Choosing products with these qualities help to uphold the health of your baby’s skin, ensuring it remains soft and bouncy. Moreover, because babies’ skin tends to have higher pH levels, some brands thoughtfully incorporate pH-balancing properties to optimise the suitability of their products for infants. 

Additive and Chemical Free

There is an understated importance in familiarising yourself, as parents, with the additives found in various baby products. These potentially toxic chemicals are utilised in plastics, fabrics and even liquids, so it’s wise to prioritise companies with transparent business practices while carefully scrutinising ingredient lists. 

Of the harmful substances prevalent in baby products, some common ones include formaldehyde, parabens and phthalates. These components can lead to a range of complications, from skin irritation to respiratory issues and endocrine disruption. On the other hand, bisphenol A (BPA) has been linked to adverse effects on both the nervous system and behavioural development, among other concerns. 

Explore mothercare’s suite of baby essentials, rigorously evaluated for your child’s safety and free from dangerous chemicals. Shop for all caregiving needs with confidence here!

Consult Our Nursery Advisors for Professional Guidance

Selecting the right baby and bath products involves several key considerations, such as ensuring dermatological testing, suitability for infants, absence of fragrances and harmful chemicals, and the presence of hypoallergenic, gentle and organic labels. Oftentimes, these factors overlap as manufacturers aim to deliver products that meet babies’ unique needs comprehensively. 

Good baby skincare is essential for maintaining its quality, and it can feel overwhelming as the smallest details overlooked can compromise your baby’s health. If you’re ever in doubt, mothercare has a curated selection of baby products, meticulously chosen for their proven effectiveness and safety standards. For personalised assistance, turn to our nursery advisors, a specialised service by mothercare that provides professional guidance and tailored solutions to meet parents’ needs with ease!

Want to know more? For further information, visit this page to connect with a Digital Nursery Advisor swiftly. Alternatively, visit us at our experience stores at Suria KLCC and Tropicana Gardens Mall today.