Most parents trust that baby products are safe. After all, they're made specifically for the most delicate skin, right? Unfortunately, many mainstream baby care products contain harmful chemicals that can disrupt your little one's development and cause skin irritation.
Here are seven ingredients hiding in common baby products that you should avoid: and what to look for instead.
1. Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben)
Where you'll find them: Lotions, shampoos, bubble baths, sunscreens
Parabens are synthetic preservatives that extend shelf life. They're easily absorbed through your baby's skin and mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting hormonal development. Studies link parabens to endocrine system damage and reproductive issues.
The scariest part? Parabens are banned in the European Union but still widely used in the US.
The natural alternative: At Kindred Naturals, we use Lactobacillus Ferment: a probiotic ingredient that naturally preserves products while supporting your baby's skin microbiome.
2. Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate)
Where you'll find them: Baby shampoos, body washes, cleansers
Those satisfying suds in your baby's shampoo? They come from sulfates: harsh detergents that strip away natural oils. This leaves your baby's delicate skin dry, irritated, and vulnerable to rashes. Sulfates can also cause eye burning and inflammation.
The natural alternative: We use Saponaria Officinalis Extract (soapwort), a gentle plant-based cleanser that creates a soft lather without stripping natural oils. Combined with nourishing Persea Gratissima Oil (avocado oil), it cleanses while maintaining your baby's skin barrier.
3. Synthetic Fragrances
Where you'll find them: Most scented baby products, including "unscented" ones
Here's the problem with "fragrance" on ingredient lists: companies don't have to disclose what's actually in it. Synthetic fragrances often contain phthalates, benzene derivatives, and other chemicals that can trigger allergies and disrupt hormones.
The natural alternative: Instead of synthetic fragrances, we use Gardenia Tahitensis (Tiare Flower) Extract for a subtle, natural scent that's gentle on sensitive skin.
4. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
Where you'll find them: Shampoos, creams, wipes
Look for ingredients like DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15, or Bronopol. These preservatives slowly release formaldehyde: a known carcinogen: over time. They cause contact dermatitis and skin sensitivity, especially problematic for babies' developing immune systems.
The natural alternative: Our Chamomilla Recutita Extract (chamomile) and Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract naturally preserve while soothing irritated skin. These botanicals have antimicrobial properties without the toxic side effects.
5. Talc
Where you'll find it: Baby powders, body powders
Talc is a lung irritant linked to respiratory problems and cancer. The biggest concern? Talc deposits can contain asbestos: a known carcinogen. Even "asbestos-free" talc poses risks, as it dries out mucous membranes and can cause breathing difficulties.
The natural alternative: Instead of drying powders, focus on gentle cleansing and moisturizing. Our Prunus Dulcis Oil (sweet almond oil) keeps skin soft and protected without clogging pores.
6. Phthalates
Where you'll find them: Products with "fragrance," nail polish, hair spray, lotions
Phthalates help fragrances last longer and make plastics flexible. They're endocrine disruptors that interfere with hormone production: particularly concerning for babies whose systems are still developing. The tricky part? They're often hidden under "fragrance" on labels.
The natural alternative: Our ingredient list is completely transparent. We use Magnolia Officinalis Extract, which has natural antimicrobial properties and a subtle, pleasant aroma without synthetic phthalates.
7. Propylene Glycol
Where you'll find it: Lotions, wipes, shampoos, cleansers
This petroleum-derived chemical helps other ingredients penetrate skin: which sounds good until you realize it also helps toxins penetrate deeper. Propylene glycol can cause skin irritation, contact dermatitis, and allergic reactions in babies.
The natural alternative: We use Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate: emulsifiers derived from olives that help blend oils and water naturally. These ingredients are gentle and actually nourish the skin barrier.
What Makes Our Ingredients Different
Every ingredient in our baby care line serves a purpose without compromise:
- Aqua provides the pure base for our formulations
- Lactic Acid gently balances pH levels for optimal skin health
- Xanthan Gum naturally thickens products without synthetic polymers
- Lactobacillus Ferment supports your baby's natural microbiome while preserving the product
How to Spot Safe Products
Reading labels gets easier once you know what to look for:
Red flags: Long chemical names, "fragrance," numbered ingredients (like FD&C Yellow No. 6), anything ending in -paraben
Green flags: Recognizable plant names, short ingredient lists, certifications like EWG Verified or USDA Organic
The sniff test: Natural products should smell mild or earthy, not artificially perfumed
Making the Switch
Transitioning to cleaner products doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start with the products you use most often: daily cleansers and moisturizers: then gradually replace others.
Your baby's skin will thank you. Natural ingredients work with your little one's developing system instead of against it. They cleanse without stripping, moisturize without clogging, and protect without causing sensitivity.
The best part? You won't find any of those seven harmful ingredients in our products. Just pure, gentle botanicals that have been safely used for generations.
When it comes to your baby's health, simple is better. Choose ingredients you can pronounce, from sources you trust, for the purest care possible.
Ready to make the switch to safer baby care? Our gentle, microbiome-friendly products are formulated specifically for your little one's delicate skin.