Frequently asked questions

Why should I be concerned about parabens?

Parabens, including methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl paraben, are just one of a large group of toxic chemicals that no-one has any idea about what the long term effects are if they are used every day on human skin. Apart from causing dermatitis, this preservative has, in recent studies, identified parabens as having an effect in the body like oestrogen, and some recent studies have found parabens in tumours in breast tissue. Once parabens enter our bodies, they stay there, so it is better to avoid foods and cosmetics and toiletries that contain parabens, given the recent concerns expressed by researchers.

Some foaming baths and shampoos irritate my skin. Why is this?

Many shampoos, foaming baths, shower gels and liquid soaps contain harsh surfactants to make the products foam or lather. There are several controversial surfactants that are commonly used as ingredients in these types of products. One of them called sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) is used in testing laboratories as the standard ingredient to irritate skin.

Normal skin has a correct balance of moisture and oils. It is slightly acidic at a pH of 4.5 - 5.75 (6.5 under the arms). There are a number of harmless bacteria and yeasts that live in low numbers on the skin’s surface, and may help to protect the skin from infection by invading harmful bacteria. Sensitive skin stings easily, especially during or after cleansing, and is therefore, more likely to be dry and hyper-reactive, i.e. prone to develop dermatitis. Sensitive skin may also be inclined to be red, flush easily or have broken capillaries. When the skin is washed, the surface oil is removed which allows water from the epidermis to be lost through evaporation on the surface of the skin. The irritation can be caused by the dryness of the skin or by a particular surfactant (foamer) in the product being used. Peer reviewed research by the American Hospital Formulary Service. Printed in Volumes I and II. Washington, DC: American Society of Hospital Pharmacists, to 1984.,p. 84:20, determined that Sodium lauryl sulphate might produce a drying effect on skin. Always check the ingredients labels on the toiletries you are thinking of using on your baby’s skin to see what they contain.

Will the shampoo hurt my baby’s eyes?

The “green” foamers that we use in Natracare bath and shampoo are amphoteric surfactants, which are non-irritant & non-toxic. (minagawa k; japan kokai patent 76 93913 08/18/76. peer reviewed) Exposure to most foaming agents, called surfactants, as well as soaps, even fresh water, can bring about momentary eye irritation, but will not cause any permanent damage. It is always recommended to avoid allowing water or shampoo to flow into the eyes whilst washing the hair as a matter of comfort for the child.

When can I start using the massage oil on my baby?

There have been many studies on the positive effects of massage therapy in different age groups, and amongst them, one of the most notable research findings was improved growth in premature infants. It appears that decreased stress hormones bring many of these effects about.

Massaging your baby each day could help to reduce the effects of asthma, dermatitis, colic and stress according to many researchers. Fathers who, for one month, gave their infants daily massages 15 minutes before putting their children to bed, showed better interaction behaviour with their infants. Because Natracare Organic Baby Massage Oil is formulated with organic carrier oils and gentle, absorbing and balancing organic essential oils of mandarin, lavender and geranium, they are soothing, relaxing and gentle for baby skin. Natracare only uses 100% organic plant ingredients in our baby massage oil, which is suitable for all skin types. If you need further advice about massaging your baby, speak to your health advisor.