What To Look For
There are a number of products that claim to be gentle, but a baby's skin is 30 percent thinner than an adult's skin and can absorb more chemicals, according to Environmental Working Group. It's important to look for baby care products that are free of harsh chemicals, specifically phthalates. A study, published in "Pediatrics" in February 2008, found that phthalates may cause long-term risks to reproductive and endocrine systems development. When selecting baby care products look for those that are free of phthalates, parabens, fragrances and dyes, as these ingredients are potentially harmful or may cause irritation.
Common Pitfalls
Many baby care products claim to be gentle and tear-free, but the Environmental Working Group found that the majority of babies and children are exposed to one or more potentially harmful ingredients. The Environmental Working Group's vice president for research, Jane Houlihan, states that just because a product is labeled for use on babies or children doesn't mean that it has undergone specific safety testing.
Where To Buy
Baby products are available for purchase at a number of retail outlets. They include grocery and drugstores, specialty health stores and baby-specific retail stores. If looking for a natural and organic baby care product that is free of harsh chemicals, it's best to visit a specialty store such as Whole Foods; however, certain natural baby care brands, such as Yes to Carrots baby care is available at drugstores such as Walgreens.
Cost
The cost of baby care products varies greatly depending upon specific product and brand; however, a typical range is $3 to $10 as of September, 2010. As a rule of thumb, natural and organic baby care products tend to be more expensive than traditional baby care because of the quality of ingredients that are used.
Comparison Shopping
Johnson's is a very well-known baby care brand that makes Johnson's Natural, a line of baby lotion, foaming wash and baby shampoo that is free of phthalates, parabens, dyes, fragrance, silicone, lanolin and other potentially irritating or harmful ingredients. The products are at least 98 percent natural and meet Natural Products Association guidelines. Healthy Child Healthy World is a non-profit organization that aims to protect children from potentially harmful chemicals and recommends baby care brands such as California Baby and Eco-Me as safe and effective baby care products.
