When it comes to a baby’s delicate skin, you might assume that products designed for them are gentle and free from harmful substances. However, that isn’t always the case.
Consumer Reports recently conducted an in-depth examination of popular baby lotions, revealing some surprising findings.
A baby’s skin lacks the ability to regulate moisture as effectively as an adult’s, prompting many parents to purchase special baby lotions to address their children’s unique needs. To understand what’s really inside these products, Consumer Reports, in collaboration with the nonprofit organization Made Safe, scrutinized the ingredients in several well-known baby lotions, identifying those that could pose risks to human health.
The study analyzed 13 baby lotions, with seven brands—Aquaphor, Aveeno, Burt’s Bees, CeraVe, Dove, Eucerin, and Johnson’s—containing the most concerning ingredients.
Ingredients flagged as potentially harmful include preservatives like phenoxyethanol and polysorbate, which have been linked to cancer. Additionally, petroleum-based ingredients such as mineral oil and paraffin were highlighted. Not only can these ingredients pose health risks, but petroleum products also don’t break down easily in the environment, raising further concerns.
Consumer Reports contacted the manufacturers of these seven brands for comment, but none responded.
Another issue identified is the use of fragrance and dyes in personal care products. In the U.S., these are often classified as trade secrets, allowing companies to keep their specific formulas confidential. However, some of these ingredients have been linked to health concerns, including cancer and endocrine disruption.
For parents looking for safer alternatives, Consumer Reports recommended lotions like California Baby Super Sensitive Everyday Lotion and Earth Mama Simply Non-Scents Baby Lotion. While these products may come with a higher price tag due to their natural ingredients, they could be worth the extra cost, especially since lotion is only necessary when a baby’s skin is dry.
On a positive note, Consumer Reports also tested ten baby lotions for lead and other toxic contaminants and found none.
In conclusion, while some popular baby lotions may contain potentially harmful ingredients, safer options are available for those willing to invest in their child’s well-being.
