Understanding what we apply to our skin is essential, particularly during pregnancy or when caring for a newborn. Everything we apply to our skin can be absorbed into our body, which is why minimising exposure to harmful toxins is crucial. This is especially important for babies, as their skin is delicate, sensitive, and more permeable than an adult’s, making it easier for toxins to be absorbed.
When it comes to caring for a baby, parents often prioritise safety, health, and nurturing in every aspect of their baby’s life. However, many parents might not realise that it’s not the products directly applied to the baby’s skin when they are born that matters, but also the products used by the mother during the pregnancy. This is because toxins can pass from mother to baby through the umbilical cord, making it vital to choose safe, non-toxic skincare products. This is highlighted in a recent study which found traces of toxins in umbilical cord blood, emphasising the importance of using non-toxics products.
For all these reasons, in today’s blog I’d like to explore why non-toxic skincare is crucial for both babies and mothers, what are the benefits for you and for your baby’s skin, and how making informed choices can positively impact your family’s health.
The Vulnerability of Baby’s Skin
A baby’s skin differs significantly from adult skin in several key ways. It is tender, highly sensitive, and has a higher surface-area-to-body-weight radio, making it more vulnerable to harmful substances. This is why using products specifically formulated for babies is so important.
Many conventional baby products, like lotions, shampoos, and creams, contain harmful substances such as parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and sulphates. These ingredients can irritate sensitive skin – leading to rashes, dryness, or discomfort. Additionally, prolonged exposure to certain chemicals has been linked to developmental issues, hormone disruption, and other long-term health problems. I would recommend reading labels carefully and opting for non-toxic, natural products to ensure your baby’s safety.
What Goes on the Skin, Goes into the Body
The skin, the body’s largest organ, serves as a barrier to protect us. However, it is not impenetrable. What we apply to our skin can be absorbed into our bloodstream. Since baby skin is three to five times thinner than adult skin and its protective function is not yet fully developed, toxins can penetrate more easily.
This is why baby care products should be free from synthetic colours, fragrances, mineral oils, parabens, and petroleum-based compounds like PEG. For babies, less is more, so it’s better to opt for simple, natural, and gentle products.
The Impact on Mothers and Babies: Pregnancy and Beyond
For mothers, concerns about toxic exposure extend beyond baby care. During pregnancy, anything absorbed through the mother’s skin can potentially reach the baby via the umbilical cord. This makes choosing non-toxic skincare products a priority for expecting mothers.
Even after birth, the products mothers use remains important, especially for those breastfeeding. Chemicals absorbed through the skin can enter the bloodstream and may transfer into breast milk. For example, physical sunscreen (which sit on the skin’s surface) are a safer choice during breastfeeding than chemical sunscreens, which are absorbed into the skin and bloodstream.
Benefits of Non-Toxic Skincare for Babies
Using non-toxic products for your baby offers multiple benefits:
- Reduced risk of allergies: Fresh and natural ingredients are less likely to trigger skin allergies or irritation compared to synthetic chemicals.
- Gentle on sensitive skin: Plant-based ingredients are often more soothing and hydrating, making them ideal for a baby’s delicate skin.
- No hidden ingredients: Non-toxic products usually provide clear ingredient lists, making it easier for parents to make informed choices. However, my best recommendation is to always read labels carefully; marketing claims like “toxic-free” or “no parabens” may still overlook other harmful ingredients for a baby.
- Supports healthy development: Reducing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals can support your baby’s long-term health and development.
Benefits for Mothers
Non-toxic skincare isn’t just beneficial for babies, it’s equally important for mothers. By eliminating exposure to harmful chemicals, mothers can:
- Minimise risks during pregnancy: Choosing safer products lower the chances of transferring toxins to the baby.
- Support breastfeeding: Using non-toxic products ensures that harmful residues absorbed through the skin won’t end up in breast milk.
My Recommendation: Ringana
As someone who frequently advises mothers, I only recommend products I’ve personally tried and trust. For the past two years, I’ve been personally working with a brand called Ringana, whose philosophy and values immediately resonated with me.
Ringana’s products are fresh, free of hidden harmful ingredients, and carefully formulated for maximum safety. Their baby line was a revelation for me, as I’ve struggled to find truly save products for babies. Because Ringana’s products are made fresh without synthetic preservatives, they cannot sit on store shelves for long periods, which further reassures me of their quality.
While Ringana is not yet widely known in the UK, it’s 30-year commitment to freshness and safety speaks volumes. That’s why I’m sharing this brand with you, because I often get asked about safe products for babies, and I couldn’t be happier to recommend this brand, as I believe that Ringana is the best choice for you and for your baby.
To conclude, choosing non-toxic skincare for both you and your baby is more than a trend, it’s an investment in your family’s long-term health. By avoiding harmful chemicals and selecting fresh, natural products, you can protect your baby’s sensitive skin while giving yourself peace of mind.
Remember, less is more when it comes to skincare, especially for babies. Prioritise simplicity, and always make informed choices for your family’s well-being.
