In recent findings, studies has shown that there are tons of toxic found in baby and children’s products, even companies and products that claim to be using natural ingredients. These chemical and toxic has adverse and some, long term effect on the children.
Young children’s body takes time to mature and develop and that makes them vulnerable to the effect of toxic chemical compare of an adult’s. As parents, it is very important to find out what kind of ingredients is harmful to them and limit their exposure to these harmful chemicals. Look out for the presence of these chemicals when making purchases.
Phthalates
Phthalates are the most commonly man-made chemical used in baby products, personal care products and toys. Research has found that prolong exposure to this chemical will heighten the possibility of disruption to the hormonal development of children, leading to health problems, failure of organs and reproductive defects.
Fragrance
Fragrance, also commonly known as parfum in products is actually a cover for hidden content, some of which can be harmful such as phthalates. Fragrance has been link closely to allergy, irritation, headaches and asthma attack. It is best to opt for fragrance-free products or products with natural scents such as lavender and chamomile.
Parabens
Parabens is a very common preservatives found in products such as moisturizer, shampoo and even makeup. It is usually added to obstruct bacteria from growing. It has been largely linked to cancer (breast cancer), endocrine disruption and reproductive toxicity. Look out for these harmful ingredients in the baby’s products Propylparaben, Benzylparaben, Methylparaben and Butylparaben.
Hydrogenated Cottonseed Oil
Any oil that is consumed or applied on the mother and baby’s skin should be organic or non-GMO certified. You may not know, cottonseed has been identified to be the “dirtiest crop in the world”. It is often contaminated with heavy mental like mercury. It is also commonly used in cheap vegetable oils and insecticides.
Benzoic Acid
Benzoic Acid is a preservative that is extracted from natural sources such as berries and apples. The content put into our baby’s products or cosmetics are way more concentrated than the content placed in food products. It has caused some concerns over recent years as studies has shown that it has been closely linked to irritation or difficulty in breathing.
BPA
BPA stands for Bisphenol A in full, is a toxic industrial chemical, used to produce certain plastics and other consumer goods. It is found to cause various health effects on the brain, behavior and prostate gland of young children even foetuses. Seek out BPA-free products that is commonly available in the market these days.
Chlorinated Tris
Chlorinated Tris is a cancer-causing chemicals found in baby’s products (Mattress, furniture) and children’s toys and clothes. It is commonly used as a flame retardant. A study has shown that Tris found in baby products containing a smaller percentages of Tris could expose children to more risk than furniture.This toxic can cause serious health problems and increased the risk of cancer.
When Should We Start?
Limiting children’s exposure to chemical should begin from the day when life begins in the womb before the little one is developed into a full term baby. The sooner we starts the lower the possibility of the child contracting illnesses, allergies and diseases.
Babies’ overall well-being lies in the caregivers. Be there to love and protect them from harm. Start purchasing organic products that are fragrance, phthalate and paraben-free.
Lists of Organic Brands:
2. Jo Lauren
4. GAIA
By Crystal Tan
