Being able to care for and raise your baby is one of the most loving and fulfilling experiences any parent can have! And we know that while caring for your baby, you want to look after your little one in the best way possible.
However, with many skin care products on the market containing synthetic fragrances and potentially harmful ingredients, babies (and moms alike) can have adverse reactions, including skin irritation, rashes, respiratory issues, and more.
Luckily, natural skin care ingredients are also readily available and provide an easy and effective way to protect your little one.
At Mustela, safety for you and your baby is our guiding principle. We strive to go beyond current safety standards to offer effective and natural skin care ingredients that are safe to use on newborns, moms, and families alike. That’s why we’re dedicating this article to breaking down the top nine natural skin care ingredients for your baby — and you too!
But before we dive into the top natural skin care ingredients, let’s take a closer look at the importance of using such products.
Aloe vera has become an increasingly popular natural remedy for various skin conditions in adults. As parents, it’s understandable to wonder if aloe vera is safe and effective for your baby’s delicate skin too.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the key details parents should know about using aloe vera on infants. We’ll cover the potential benefits, recommended uses, safety precautions, and best practices for applying aloe vera on a baby’s skin and hair.
Overview of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has been used for medicinal and skincare purposes for thousands of years. The clear gel-like substance in the leaves is what provides the skin and health benefits.
Aloe vera gel contains over 200 active compounds including
- Vitamins: A, C, E
- Enzymes
- Minerals: zinc, calcium, magnesium
- Sugars: glucose, mannose
- Anthraquinones: aloin, aloe-emodin
- Fatty acids
- Auxins and gibberellins: plant hormones with anti-inflammatory effects
These nutrients make aloe an excellent moisturizer and give it antimicrobial, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically.
Is Aloe Vera Safe for Babies?
When used appropriately, aloe vera is generally considered safe for babies. Both the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health and the National Eczema Association state that topical application of aloe vera is safe.
However, it’s not recommended for babies to ingest aloe vera orally, as the laxative effects could lead to diarrhea or cramping. There’s also a risk of skin irritation or allergic reaction in some infants.
It’s best to consult your pediatrician before using aloe vera on your baby, especially if they are under 6 months old or have sensitive skin. Do a patch test on a small area first to check for any irritation. Only use 100% pure, organic aloe vera gel with no added chemicals. Avoid products labeled “from concentrate.”
Benefits of Aloe Vera for Baby’s Skin
When used safely and correctly, aloe vera provides the following benefits for babies:
Soothes Skin Irritation
Aloe vera is renowned for its ability to soothe inflamed, irritated skin. For babies, it can help soothe and reduce redness from:
- Diaper rash
- Heat rash
- Minor scrapes/cuts
- Bug bites
- Eczema flare-ups
Moisturizes Dry Skin
The mucopolysaccharides in aloe vera help the skin retain moisture. Regular use helps keep your baby’s skin soft, smooth and supple. It prevents and relieves dry, flaky skin.
Supports Wound Healing
Multiple studies confirm aloe accelerates wound healing and skin cell regeneration. The zinc acts as an astringent to tighten skin. Aloe also stimulates collagen production around wounds.
Has Antimicrobial Properties
Aloe contains substances shown to have antibacterial, antifungal and even antiviral effects. This helps protect scrapes and cuts from infection. It also combats bacteria that aggravate skin conditions like acne.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Compounds like plant hormones gibberellins provide anti-inflammatory benefits when aloe is applied to the skin. This reduces swelling, redness and pain from rashes, minor burns, insect bites and other skin inflammations.
How to Use Aloe Vera on Baby’s Skin
Here are some best practices for using aloe vera safely on your baby’s delicate skin:
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Choose 100% pure, organic aloe vera gel with no added chemicals or fragrances. Avoid aloe vera juice or drinks, which contain aloin and other compounds not suitable for skin application.
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Do a patch test on a small area of skin first to check for allergies or irritation before broader use.
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Apply a thin layer of gel and gently massage into baby’s skin. Avoid sensitive areas like eyes, nose and mouth.
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For diaper rash, apply aloe vera gel with each diaper change. Can also be used preventatively.
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To help minor cuts/scrapes heal, apply a light aloe vera gel layer and cover with a bandage if needed. Reapply 2-3 times per day.
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For dry, irritated skin, use aloe vera gel like a daily moisturizer after bathing.
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Discontinue use if any signs of skin irritation like redness or rash appear. Check with your pediatrician if concerns arise.
Using Aloe Vera on Baby’s Hair and Scalp
In addition to skin benefits, aloe vera can also be great for your baby’s hair and scalp health. It contains proteolytic enzymes that help rid the scalp of dead skin cells and product buildup. Aloe’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial benefits may also help reduce scalp conditions like cradle cap, dandruff and dryness.
To use aloe vera on your baby’s hair:
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Look for organic, pure aloe vera gels designed for hair use. Some gels are too tacky for hair application.
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After shampooing, massage a small amount of aloe gel into your baby’s scalp and work through damp hair.
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For cradle cap, leave the aloe gel on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing out.
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Initially use aloe gel 1-2 times per week and increase frequency based on your baby’s response.
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Discontinue if any irritation occurs and check with your pediatrician if concerns arise.
While aloe vera is generally very soothing, always exercise caution with new products on your baby’s sensitive scalp.
Safety Precautions When Using Aloe Vera on Babies
When used correctly, aloe vera is very gentle and suitable for babies’ skin. However, it’s important to keep these safety guidelines in mind:
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Avoid using aloe vera on broken skin or open wounds. Only use on closed, intact areas of skin.
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Don’t apply aloe gels near your baby’s eyes, nostrils or mouth due to ingestion risk.
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If any signs of skin irritation, rash or redness appear after application, stop use and check with your pediatrician.
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Keep all aloe vera products out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
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Consult your pediatrician before using on babies under 6 months old or on specific skin conditions like eczema.
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Do not give aloe vera internally or use non-food grade gels orally due to the laxative effects that could be harmful for infants.
With the right aloe vera product and proper precautions, you can safely use aloe to soothe and care for your baby’s skin. But as always, check with your pediatrician first if you have any concerns about using aloe vera on your child.
Homemade Aloe Vera Gel for Babies
While there are many quality aloe gels available for purchase, some parents prefer to make their own. Here is a simple DIY method:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 fresh aloe vera leaves
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
Steps:
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Cut open the aloe leaves and scoop out the clear inner gel.
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Blend or whisk the aloe gel with the vitamin E oil and any optional essential oils.
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Store the homemade gel in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Be sure to use fresh aloe leaves from an organic, homegrown source whenever possible. Vitamin E oil helps preserve the gel. Lavender oil adds a soothing fragrance but is optional.
Always do a patch test before applying homemade products to your baby’s skin to check for any irritation or allergic reactions.
Common Questions about Aloe Vera for Babies
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using aloe vera on infants:
Can I apply aloe vera gel on my baby’s face?
It’s best to avoid using aloe gel on a baby’s face as it could get into their eyes or mouth and be accidentally ingested. Their facial skin is also very delicate.
Is it safe to use aloe vera on baby acne?
While aloe vera does have anti-acne properties, take care using it on your baby’s face as the skin is very sensitive. Avoid use around the eyes. Check with your pediatrician first if concerned about baby acne.
Can I give my baby aloe vera juice?
Do not give babies aloe vera juice orally unless specifically recommended by your pediatrician. Ingesting aloe latex can have strong laxative effects in infants.
How often can I use aloe vera gel on my baby’s skin?
For general moisturizing, aloe vera gel can be applied 1-2 times per day. For diaper rash or skin irritations, reapply with each diaper change. Assess your baby’s response and adjust frequency accordingly.
Are there any side effects I should watch for?
Discontinue use if you notice any skin irritation, rash, or redness after applying aloe gel on your baby. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Check with your pediatrician if any concerns arise.
Conclusion
When used topically and correctly, pure aloe vera gel can be a safe and effective remedy for many common skin irritations that affect babies. Its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties can provide soothing relief for diaper rash, dry skin, scrapes, and more.
However, it’s crucial to consult your pediatrician before using, do a patch test to check for allergies, and take care to avoid ingestion. Oral consumption of aloe vera is not recommended for infants. With the proper aloe vera product and precautions, you can safely incorporate this ancient herbal remedy into your baby’s skincare routine.
Natural Skin Care Ingredients For Your Baby
The aloe vera plant’s fleshy leaves contain a natural gel that helps treat various medical conditions of the skin, digestive tract, and more. Aloe vera for baby skin is quite safe.
Aloe vera is specifically effective in fighting baby rashes. These rashes can inflame your child’s skin with itchy, red patches. Allergies and a weak immune system can also lead to skin problems such as eczema and worsen your little one’s skin irritation. Use aloe vera gel on your baby’s skin to soothe irritation without any side effects.
Additionally, try aloe vera gel to treat minor cuts, burns, and bruises on your little one’s skin. It can also soothe your baby’s itching that occurs due to mosquito or insect bites.
Avocado oil, which is rich in Vitamin E, is used in many baby hair, skin, and sun products. It is a beneficial oil that strengthens the skin barrier.
Products containing avocado oil, like Mustelas Baby Oil, blend effortlessly into your little one’s skin, creating the ultimate soothing and comforting massage experience for your baby.
Mustela’s scientists formulated Avocado Perseose — a rare molecule within the heart of the avocado.
This patented, natural skin care ingredient can be found in all of Mustela products, such as the Diaper Rash Cream 1 2 3, and it works in harmony with your baby’s delicate skin to hydrate and protect and to preserve its cellular resources.
Beeswax is a natural salve that helps to soothe easily irritated skin.
It’s understandable for parents to worry whether or not allergy-inducing pollen spores can be transported through contact with pure beeswax or beeswax as a product ingredient. But in its skin care form, beeswax is 100 percent safe for babies.
Galactoarabinan (GA) is a natural tree extract that is extremely beneficial to your baby’s delicate skin. GA helps protect and renew sensitive skin and helps vulnerable baby skin maintain a barrier that will keep moisture in.
Remember, moms, that your skin care routine matters too! Mustela’s Ultimate Hydration Bundle for moms contains galactoarabinan to help prevent and heal stretch marks. Safe to use while breastfeeding for both moms and babies, Mustela’s skin care products are effective during prenatal and postpartum pregnancy.
Jojoba oil acts as a natural emollient, which makes it suitable for your babys delicate skin. Natural jojoba oil is effective in treating skin rashes on babies and for general skin care. It is even gentle enough for you to apply a few drops of the oil directly on skin that is affected by rashes.
Olive oil is naturally high in the beneficial fatty acids called linoleic acid and oleic acid. Scientific research suggests that linoleic acid can help strengthen your babys skin barrier.
You can find olive oil as one of the main ingredients in our Certified Organic skin care!
Native to Africa, Shea trees bear fruit that is known as “God’s gift to Africa” because of the rich, highly nourishing butter that they yield.
When used in your baby’s skin care products, shea butter’s composition and unique fatty acid profile give it the ability to moisturize, soothe, and protect very dry, sensitive, and flaky skin.
Skin Care Ingredient Terms To Look For In Your Baby’s Products
Phenoxyethanol is a synthetically produced chemical that is used to fight bacteria. Though more testing is ultimately needed, phenoxyethanol may have an impact on the nervous system. It is known to be a skin irritant and may cause vomiting and diarrhea if used at certain concentrations.
Parabens are widely used as preservatives in the food and cosmetics industry, but they may irritate your baby’s skin. Furthermore, the biggest concern surrounding parabens is that they are known to disrupt hormone function.
Since a baby’s hormone system is not yet mature, parabens may cause irreparable damage to their developing endocrine system.
Sulfates are used in shampoos and body wash products for their detergent and foam-building abilities. However, sulfates are easily absorbed through the body and are often known to cause eye irritation, skin rash, hair loss, scalp scurf similar to dandruff, and allergic reactions in babies.
Alcohol is commonly used in adult skin care products to make them dry quickly and feel light on your skin. But alcohol can be very drying and may irritate your babys delicate skin, so it shouldnt be used in skin care products for your little one.
Whenever you shop for skin care products for your baby, make sure they are phenoxyethanol-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, and alcohol-free. With a bit of effort and a lot of ingredient-label reading, it’s possible to safely keep your little one as fresh and clean as can be! Here are the top nine natural skin care ingredients for your baby.