Non-Toxic Living: Kids (Shampoo, Toothpaste, Sunscreen, Lotion, Vitamins, & More)
"Children are like wet cement: whatever falls on thsem makes an impression."
—Haim Ginott
Over the past twenty years, scientists have been studying how harmful chemicals in our environment can affect children's health. They've found that certain chemicals, like the ones in pesticides and pollution, can cause serious diseases in kids. For example, some girls who were exposed to a chemical called DES before they were born developed a rare type of cancer. And other chemicals, like lead and PCBs, can harm a child's brain development and increase the risk of diseases like asthma and cancer.
Children are particularly vulnerable to these toxins due to their unique characteristics. They often breathe, drink, eat, and absorb more per pound of body weight than adults, which means that kids can be exposed to higher levels of harmful substances. Additionally, their developing organs and immature detoxification systems further limit their ability to effectively eliminate these toxins, making them even more vulnerable compared to adults.
While awareness of these harmful chemicals is growing, preventing their production altogether poses a significant challenge. There is hope on the horizon, however, as many companies have shifted their focus toward producing products with healthy, toxin-free ingredients. In this article, I’ll tell you what to look for, what to avoid, and give recommendations for which products to choose.
Choosing non-toxic products for kids’ daily care becomes an important step in mitigating the risks associated with these toxic chemicals and lessening the burden on their developing bodies. Here are the top picks for these non-toxic kid’s products that we’ll tackle today:
All-in-one bath and shower products
Conditioners
Detanglers
Chlorine removers
Bar soap
Body lotion
Hand soap
Toothpaste
Mouthwash
Sunscreen
Vitamins
Deodorant
Acne Care
Non-Toxic Kids Care Products
Kid’s Bath & Shower Products
Bath and shower time may be the most important consideration when considering the toxins that affect your child's health. The reason is that it presents a direct opportunity for the skin, the body's largest organ (a.k.a. your second mouth), to come into contact with various substances.
One key group to steer clear of is synthetic fragrances and dyes, which can contain potentially harmful chemicals that may irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions. Opting for products with natural fragrances derived from essential oils or fragrance-free options can help minimize the risk of skin sensitivities. Additionally, it's important to avoid products containing sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), as these can strip the skin and hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
On the flip side, parents should look for bath and shower products formulated with gentle, nourishing ingredients that are safe for children's delicate skin. Natural, plant-based ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera can help moisturize and soothe the skin without causing irritation. Choosing products labeled as hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested can also provide added assurance of safety and suitability for sensitive skin. Furthermore, seeking out products that are free from parabens, phthalates, and other environmental toxins ensures bathtime and shower time are times of enjoyment and relaxation, devoid of any concerns about exposure to harmful substances.
To learn more about skin recommendations, read this: Acne, Eczema, & Bathing Infants: An Interview With A Pediatric Dermatologist.
All-In-Ones
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Kid’s Toothpaste
When it comes to selecting toothpaste for kids, the fluoride debate has long been a source of confusion for parents. Despite advocates on both sides, the science remains inconclusive, leaving many unsure about its safety. The science is becoming clear, however, about the potential risks associated with fluoride, particularly concerning its impact on developing brains. Studies have linked fluoride exposure to lower IQ scores, bone fractures, and dental fluorosis, prompting cautious consideration, especially for children prone to swallowing toothpaste.
Beyond fluoride, it's imperative to scrutinize toothpaste ingredients to ensure they align with holistic health principles and mitigate and health issues in children. Sulfates, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives are among the additives to avoid, as they may pose their own set of risks to children's well-being.
Top Picks:
Training toothpaste: BOTAO Organic Training Toothpaste
Training toothpaste: Tom's of Maine Fluoride-Free Toddler Training Toothpaste
*Beware that not all of Tom’s of Maine products are fluoride-free.
Kid’s Mouthwash
Mouthwash can do more harm than good if you choose the wrong kind. Recent research has raised concerns about the potential risks associated with certain mouthwash ingredients. Ingredients like chlorhexidine and alcohol, commonly found in many mouthwashes, have been linked to health issues such as diabetes, cancer, and disruption of the oral microbiome. These ingredients, while effective at killing germs, may also harm the beneficial bacteria that support oral health and overall well-being.
To mitigate these risks, it's essential to choose mouthwashes that are free from fluoride, alcohol, artificial dyes, sweeteners, flavors, and SLS sulfates. By selecting products with safer ingredients, you can help safeguard your family's oral and systemic health.
Read more here: Mouthwash Health Concerns: Should You Stop Using Mouthwash?
Top Pick:
Sunscreen
Choosing sunscreen for babies involves careful consideration to ensure their delicate skin is protected without exposure to harmful chemicals. Conventional sunscreens often contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, and other chemicals linked to hormone disruption, allergic reactions, and even coral reef damage. For instance, oxybenzone and octinoxate have been shown to cause coral bleaching and are banned in many areas to protect ocean ecosystems. Additionally, chemical additives like retinyl palmitate and parabens raise concerns about skin sensitivity and hormone disruption. In contrast, natural sunscreens use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to physically block or reflect UV rays, offering a safer alternative for a baby's sensitive skin. These ingredients create a physical barrier without the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions, making them suitable for infants.
When selecting natural sunscreen for babies, opt for products labeled as broad-spectrum, providing protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for non-nano mineral-based particles to avoid the white residue often associated with mineral sunscreens. Moreover, consider sunscreens with a lower SPF, as SPF values above 30 offer marginal benefits while potentially being marked up in price. It's crucial to apply sunscreen frequently and avoid spray sunscreens, which pose inhalation risks and may result in uneven application.
For more on natural sunscreens read this.
Top Picks For Natural Sunscreen Lotion:
Earth Mama Bundle (SPF 40, 3oz. Lotion, .74oz. Stick). Use MINDBODYDADY for 10% off.
Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 50, 3oz.)
Badger Baby Organic Mineral Sunscreen Cream (SPF 40, 2.9oz.)
Budget Friendly: Thinksport Kids Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 50, 6oz.)
Top Picks For Natural Sunscreen Sticks:
Earth Mama Bundle (SPF 40, 3oz. Lotion, .74oz. Stick). Use MINDBODYDADY for 10% off.
Olita Mineral Sunstick (SPF 30, .6oz)
Raw Elements Baby + Kids Organic Sunscreen Lotion Stick (SPF 30, 1oz.)
Budget Friendly: Waxhead Baby Sunscreen (SPF 35, 4oz.)
Vitamins
When choosing non-toxic vitamins for kids, prioritize safety, quality, and effectiveness. One vital aspect to consider is the ingredient list. Look for vitamins that are free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, as these additives can potentially have negative health effects, especially in the long term. Additionally, opt for vitamins that are non-GMO, organic, and sourced sustainably whenever possible. Hiya Vitamins, for example, are formulated with input from pediatricians and scientists, ensuring that they meet high-quality standards and are safe for children. These chewable vitamins are made with honest ingredients and are free from added sugar, using natural sweeteners like monk fruit extract and mannitol instead.
Another important factor to consider is the nutrient content of the vitamins. Ensure that the vitamins provide a comprehensive blend of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for children's growth and development. Hiya Vitamins, for instance, contain 15 essential vitamins and minerals, including biotin, calcium, vitamin D, and zinc, along with a blend of 12 organic fruits and vegetables. This ensures that children receive a wide spectrum of nutrients to support their overall health. By prioritizing safety, quality, and nutrient content, parents can confidently choose non-toxic vitamins like Hiya Vitamins to support their children's health and well-being.
Learn more about why we chose Hiya Vitamins as the choice for our kids.
Deodorant
For growing bodies, choosing the right deodorant can feel like a grown-up step. But many traditional deodorants and antiperspirants contain ingredients that might raise concerns for parents. Look for deodorants with minimal ingredients and avoid talc-based products, which may contain asbestos. Avoid aerosol sprays due to potential benzene contamination and opt for stick or roll-on products for safer application.
Also, avoid aluminum since this disrupts the natural process of sweating by blocking the sweat glands. This metal has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and potential associations with Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, big-brand deodorants often contain other harmful chemicals like phthalates, triclosan, parabens, and propylene glycol, which can disrupt hormonal balance and harm the skin microbiome.
Before switching, consider if you or your child really need deodorant, especially on days when the weather is mild and there won’t be much sweating.
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Acne Care
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