‘Going organic’ may be a fad for some, but for many new mums, eliminating chemicals from your newborn’s world is the new way of life. Here, we chat to Irene Falcone, natural skincare expert and founder of toxin-free beauty e-tailer www.nourishedlife.com.au to find out what to ditch from your bathroom now, and safe alternatives …
What are some of the common chemicals found in our baby products?
- “Sodium Lauryl Sulfate – this is the same ingredient used in anti-freeze and engine degreasers
- Parabens and other synthetic preservatives.
- Phthalates and synthetic fragrances.
- Mineral oil (a by-product of petroleum) is also commonly used in baby lotions.
What harm can they cause?
“Everything we apply to our skin is absorbed – including chemicals,” explains Irene. “The ones mentioned above have been strongly linked with skin irritations, the aggravation of eczema symptoms, headaches and other health issues. They can also sensitise the skin when used frequently or over an extended period, which can make skin more prone to chemical irritations in general.”
What should we look for on the label?
“It can be very confusing because many common terms used are not regulated, so companies are able to make broad claims without needing to back them up. They often talk about the product being soft, gentle or even ecofriendly or natural, which can be very misleading for consumers.”
How can parents protect their child?
“The best thing we can do as parents is only buy products that carry an ‘Organic Certification’ logo. This means they must pass stringent inspections every year throughout their entire formulation and manufacturing process to ensure the end product is safe to use.
What safe alternative buys would you recommend to parents?
The Sanctum Certified Organic Baby Hair & Body Wash, $10.95
“This product ticks all of the boxes – it’s 2 in 1 formula makes life easier, it is Australian made 100% Natural and also certified organic.”
WotNot Baby Wipes, $7.95
“WotNot Baby Wipes are developed by Australian mums so we can clean our babies without using the toxic chemicals found in many mainstream brands. Using only the finest and most gentle natural extracts and totally free from sulphates, petrochemicals, parabens, artificial preservatives and fragrances, these all natural nappy wipes are the safest on the market.”
Eco Body Sunscreen, $34.95
“This all natural sunscreen has the highest safety ranking from the EWG, is water resistant for 3 hours and offers high zinc oxide 30+ protection from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. The formula is non greasy, absorbs well and will not clog pores.”
Organic Clean Hand Sanitiser, $6.95
“This organic and 100% natural hand sanitiser is made in Australia and is a non-rinse, hypoallergenic formula that kills 99.9% of germs and continues working up to 2 hours after use.”
Acure Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner, $16.95 each
“This hydrating natural shampoo and conditioner duo provides lasting moisture, softness and shine to even the most dry and damaged hair. These products use an omega rich, Triple Moisture System made up from a combination of organic Argan Oil & Argan Stem Cells, CoQ10, Pumpkin Seed Oil and Organic Sea Buckthorn Oil.”
About Irene
Irene is a mum of 4, and a reformed mainstream beauty addict. After years of battling fatigue threw away all her mainstream beauty products to “go organic”. Within just a few months he started to really see and feel the results. Irene started her business Nourishedlife.com.au to help other mums make the switch to natural and organic products.
