How delicate is baby skin?
Baby skin is more delicate than that of adults and can be damaged by coarse fabrics or rough towels, for example. This is partly because baby skin is slightly thinner than adult skin (about 20 to 30%). It is also because skin responds to the environment and babies are making the transition from life in the womb to life in the outside world, and therefore experiencing it for the first time. Baby skin also has a higher surface pH (a scientific measure of acid or alkaline).
Personal care products made for babies and infants are formulated to take these factors into account; for example, they use milder cleansers, low levels of fragrance and the pH is carefully controlled to ensure compatibility with the skin. Also, there is an enhanced safety assessment legally required for all cosmetic products intended for use on children under three years of age.
Generally, bathing a baby in water only is the recommendation for the first two to four weeks of life but after this point, it is safe to use personal care products which are intended to be used on babies and infants. NHS Choices has advice on washing and bathing your baby.
Can ingredients be more easily absorbed through infant skin?
No. In fact, babies are born with skin which is very nearly complete in its barrier function and this further matures within the first two to four weeks after birth, providing an effective barrier to external substances. Although baby skin may be physically more sensitive than adult skin, and thus requires gentle handling, from the point of view of being able to keep out unwanted substances, baby skin is an effective barrier.
Is it safe to use cosmetics and toiletries on children?
Yes. While it is true that children's skin can be more sensitive in its early years, it is safe to use products specially designed for children. That's because these products are formulated for children. For example, they may use milder cleansers, low levels of fragrance and have a carefully controlled pH to ensure compatibility with younger skin.
Should only natural and organic products be used on children's skin?
That is not necessary, no. It is a common misconception that 'natural' and 'organic' products are safer or less irritating than other products, but this is not the case. All ingredients, whether 'natural', 'organic' or 'synthetic', must be safe in cosmetic products. Often it's just a case of finding products that suit each individual and there are lots of ranges designed for all types of skin, including sensitive skin.
Should I only use personal care products specifically designed for children?
If your child is under three years old, we would advise that you only use products specifically created for babies and children under three. Such products will be clearly labelled for this age range and will be specially formulated, for example they use milder cleansers, low levels of fragrance and have a carefully controlled pH to ensure compatibility with babies' skin.
Manufacturers will have ranges of products to suit various ages, skin types, lifestyles and budgets. It is good to use products that match the age of your child(ren). However once a child is over three then it is also fine to use family products. Of course with any cosmetic product, irrespective of the target age, it is always important to follow the instructions for use and to keep them out of reach of children.
What should I do if I have my child has a reaction?
The majority of people use cosmetic products without any problems. However a small number of people may have a reaction to certain ingredients. Not every reaction is an allergic reaction but all are upsetting to the person concerned.
If your child has had a reaction:
- See your GP for further information. They may refer you to an allergy specialist such as a dermatologist to determine the cause.
- Contact the manufacturer to let them know your child has had a reaction to their product. They will be able to advise you further.
Once the ingredient your child is allergic to has been identified, you will be able to avoid it by checking the ingredient list on product packaging. Ingredients are listed with the same names across Europe and most of the world, so you should be able to identify your allergen even when travelling.
Allergy UK has further information on allergy in childhood.
Skincare - older children and teenagers
See our section Skincare Simplified - A Parent's Guide to discover practical ways to support your child’s healthy relationship with their skin.
