What you Don't Know Can Hurt your Kids
As a parent, you only want the best for your children. You feed them the right foods, make sure they get exercise, read books to them and spend most of your time and energy helping them become the best people they can be. But you may also be putting them at risk for rashes or allergic reactions as a result of the lotions, shampoos, and diaper/nappy creams you use on a daily basis.
Babies' Skin
We all know that babies have delicate skin, but did you know that a baby's skin is five times thinner than that of an adult? As a result, their skin (the largest organ in the entire body) is at much higher a risk for irritation by harsh chemicals found in many skincare products, even by those targeted to children. While irritation can occur from fragrance, humectants, and surfactants in the products (used to create lather in soaps and shampoos), the real danger may lurk in the preservatives.
Preservatives Called Parabens
Preservatives are a necessary part of any product and play an important role in limiting the growth of bacteria that could harm delicate skin. Some such as sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate are relatively safe since they are mostly salt, but can irritate a baby's skin. However, many baby products contain a class of preservatives called parabens (methyl, ethyl, propel and butylparaben), which act like hormones and disrupt the body's immune system.
Medical Dangers of Parabens
This hormonal link may be the most cause for concern. Parabens, used as food preservatives, are flushed out of the body during the digestive process, making them less harmful. However, when parabens are applied to the skin in a cream or lotion, they are absorbed directly into the body. Recently, British researcher Dr Phillipa Darbre conducted a study on samples of 20 breast tumors and found traces of parabens in eighteen of them, suggesting that parabens applied to the skin were absorbed and remained in breast tissue. [1] This danger does not only apply to girls and women. Recent studies in China and Japan have linked parabens to low sperm count and decreased testosterone levels. [2]
Taking Responsibility
Although it is not yet proven that parabens are the sole culprits in this health crisis, many aware parents are opting not to take the risk with their children. These parents are specifically looking for a safer, gentler alternative to the synthetic preservatives found in most baby products (both name brand products and those found in the local health food stores).
Parents owe it to themselves and their children to know all about the products they use. Whatever you choose for your children's skincare, make sure you understand the benefits and any potential risks. Knowledge is power, and aware parents make all the difference in happy, healthy children.
1 Concentration of Parable in Human breast Tumors. Darbre PH et al J appl. Toxicol 24, 5-13(2004).
2 Effects of propyl paraben on the male reproductive system. Oishi S. Food Chem Toxicol. 2002 Dec. 40(12):1807-13.
