At Original Sprout, we understand the value of using products you trust - especially when caring for young ones.
September is National Baby Safety Month, and this week, we want to emphasize our commitment to ensuring the highest safety standards for newborn products. At the same time, we want to shed a little light on what actually makes baby products non-toxic and trustworthy.
Ultimately, our goal is to help you make informed decisions to further your baby’s health and well-being. Here are some baby skincare-related tips, ingredients to be mindful of, and what to look for in your search for family-friendly products.
Key Safety Tips for Baby Bathtime
Bathtime with your newborn or baby can be a special opportunity for bonding and play. However, it’s not without its risks, and parents should be aware of certain steps to protect their children and minimize the chance of harmful accidents.
For instance, when bathing your young child, we always recommend…
Checking the Water Temperature
Make sure the water is just right for your baby. It should be comfortably warm rather than hot, with a temperature around 98°F. Use your wrist or elbow to check the water before putting your baby (especially a newborn) in the bath to prevent burns or discomfort.
Gather Supplies Before Bathing
Put your baby’s bath supplies within reach before you start. These can include shampoo, baby oil, washcloths, diapers, and towels. Having your supplies on hand prevents the need to leave your baby unattended, minimizing the risk of serious accidents.
Use Non-Slip Mats
Place a non-slip mat in the bathtub to prevent any injuries or accidents. A secure surface can help prevent dangerous falls while keeping your baby safe and comfortable. Make sure that the mat doesn’t shift around during the bath.
All of these recommendations will help you start bathtime on the right foot and help teach your little one how to be safe around the tub.
The Dangers of Harmful Baby Bath Ingredients
Just because an ingredient is common in newborn or baby products doesn’t mean it’s necessarily good for their skin.
Unfortunately, many personal care and bathing products contain harmful chemicals that can disrupt a baby’s natural skin barrier or cause irritation. That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to what you’re using at bathtime and how each product can impact your baby’s wellness.
Some common risky ingredients to avoid in baby products include…
Parabens and Phthalates
While parabens and phthalates are chemicals commonly found in baby products, research indicates they can disrupt hormonal systems and may have long-term health effects. As a result, we recommend opting for products labeled paraben-free and phthalate-free.
Fortunately, such products are increasingly available to parents as the public learns more about parabens and phthalates. At Original Sprout, all of our skin and hair care products are free of these ingredients, so you can rest assured you’re not exposing your child to them at a young age.
SLS and SLES
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are substances found in many shampoos, face washes, and body washes. Both chemicals contribute to a foaming quality in products but SLS is known to be more harsh on the skin, causing dry skin and sensitivity.
SLES is a milder alternative, but it may still be a good idea to avoid it as it can contain contaminants that may be irritating. We typically recommend avoiding any infant products that contain either ingredient, just to be safe.
Artificial Dyes
Artificial dyes can pose health risks to a newborn’s skin, as it is more sensitive and permeable than an adult’s.
Many synthetic dyes may contain harmful chemicals, such as coal tar or petroleum byproducts, which can cause allergic reactions, skin irritations, or exacerbate conditions like eczema when they come in contact with delicate infant skin.
In some cases, certain artificial dyes have been linked to more serious health concerns, including potential disruptions in the endocrine system or adverse neurological effects when absorbed into the bloodstream.
The FDA has raised concerns about specific dyes, such as Red 40 and Yellow 5, which may cause hypersensitivity reactions in some individuals. Look out for these, especially in lotion and soap products, as well as some diapers.
Shopping for Safe Baby Products: What to Look For
At Original Sprout, our mission is to help parents find truly safe products and materials for their children at any age. We meticulously formulate our products to meet the highest safety standards and are committed to providing gentle, effective solutions that nurture your baby’s skin.
Even if you don’t shop with us, we want to steer you in the right direction to protect your child. Here are some parameters to consider when purchasing things like baby shampoo, diaper cream, baby lotion, etc.
Hypoallergenic Formulas
Products like our Worry-Free line are hypoallergenic, which means they are carefully crafted to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. As a result, they are often gentler on a baby’s skin.
Hypoallergenic formulas aren’t just reserved for skincare products. Many parents also opt to use hypoallergenic baby wipes and diapers to prevent irritation. These are made with skin-friendly materials to minimize the risk of contact dermatitis.
Dermatologist-Tested
Products that are dermatologist-tested are generally considered safer for babies. These products are thoroughly tested for potential skin irritation and are designed to be gentle.
This extra layer of protection can go a long way toward greater peace of mind for a parent. However, make sure you’re reading beyond generic labels, as some brands may make false claims.
To determine if a baby product is actually dermatologist-tested, look for clear labeling on the packaging. Reputable products often mention the testing process and may provide additional details, such as "hypoallergenic" or "suitable for sensitive skin," indicating that the product has undergone evaluations by dermatologists.
It’s also helpful to check for third-party certifications from organizations like the National Eczema Association or Skin Health Alliance, which ensure the product meets specific standards.
If you're still unsure, you can also ask the manufacturer for more detailed information on their vetting process and materials.
Organic Ingredients
Lastly, using organic ingredients in baby products offers the benefit of reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, which can irritate sensitive infant skin or cause allergic reactions.
Organic ingredients are grown without the use of pesticides or fertilizers, which contributes to a higher level of purity and safety. This is especially important for babies, whose skin is more permeable and vulnerable to absorbing harmful substances.
Although you might see terms like "natural" and "organic" used interchangeably on baby products, note that "natural" refers to ingredients derived from nature, but they may still be processed with chemicals or grown with pesticides.
"Organic," on the other hand, means the ingredients meet strict guidelines regulated by certifying bodies. This confirms they are free from potentially harmful substances.
How Original Sprout Makes Infant Safety a Priority
Our company is fully committed to protecting your family through sustainable, non-toxic products that are safe for people of all ages and skin types, including babies. When you shop with us, you can trust that each product is…
Free From Harmful Chemicals
Original Sprout takes your baby’s safety seriously. Our formulas are free from parabens, phthalates, SLS, and artificial coloring. Furthermore, all of our products are cruelty-free, vegan, and safe for your baby’s skin.
Contains Gentle Yet Effective Ingredients
Our products are formulated with natural extracts and designed with holistic nourishment in mind. We know how hard it is to be a parent, and we strive to make finding trustworthy soaps, lotions, and other products simpler.
Is Dermatologist Approved
All of our products are dermatologist-tested and approved. This means they have been thoroughly evaluated for safety and efficacy. In fact, you can even view our skin patch test results to learn more about our products.
Find the Right Bath & Skincare Products for Your Family
Whether you have a newborn or a toddler, bathtime should be safe and enjoyable for everyone. That starts with choosing the best option when it comes to skincare.
By choosing non-toxic products and following these essential tips, you can create a nurturing environment for your baby’s wash routine and prevent harm from worrisome chemicals and additives.
Browse Original Sprout’s Full Line of Products
Original Sprout, founded in 2003 by a hairstylist and new mama, creates safe and effective baby products with parents in mind. Our line includes baby sunscreen, shampoos, conditioners, and moisturizer products made without irritants or hormone-disrupting ingredients.
To learn more, shop our children’s collection or visit our FAQ page. You can also send questions to info@originalsprout.com.