Children's skin is defenseless against the effects of toxic substances. But do cosmetic products from the "baby products" category really guarantee the safety of the baby's health? Let's try to figure out which ingredients in baby shampoos should be avoided so as not to harm the child.
Of all baby care products, shampoos have the most side effects. They often include detergents that irritate the thin baby skin, chemical fragrances and even carcinogens. The most undesirable components of baby shampoos are sodium laureth sulfate, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, monoethanolamine, quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid.
Sodium laureth sulfate
Sodium laureth sulfate / sodium lauryl sulfate is an irritant that promotes the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines. Despite being added to car washes and engine cleaners, it is by far the most popular ingredient in the cosmetics industry. According to the American College of Toxicology, this substance can cause eye problems in children. As a result of the studies carried out, it was found that sodium laureth sulfate is dangerous for the human immune system; this is especially true for the protective function of the skin. Under the influence of this substance, the skin can exfoliate and become inflamed. And in combination with other chemicals, laureth sulfate is converted to nitrosamines, a dangerous class of carcinogens. A report from the American College of Toxicology states that "sodium laureth sulfate remains in the human body for five days, and its breakdown products are deposited in the cells of the heart, liver, lungs and brain."
Tear-free shampoo has the same pH as a human tear, so it doesn't sting when it gets into the eye. But a neutral pH is less irritating to the scalp, so you should opt for it, avoiding contact with your face.
Diethanolamine, Triethanolamine, Monoethanolamine
DEA, MEA and TEA are ammonia derivatives that cause hormonal imbalances. They are converted to nitrates and nitrosamines, which can cause cancer. Most often, in the composition of shampoos, they are indicated together with a neutralizing substance, for example, Cocoamide DEA or Lauramide DEA. These substances are dangerous in that, with constant use, they lead to liver or kidney cancer.
DMDM hydantoin
This substance, like imidazolidinyl urea, is often used in cosmetics as a preservative. It belongs to the formaldehyde-donor type of substances that can form formaldehyde, which in turn irritates the respiratory organs, causes skin reactions and heart palpitations. The breakdown products of formaldehyde are responsible for many health problems such as joint pain, allergic reactions, depression, chest pain, ear infections, chronic fatigue and insomnia. Serious side effects from exposure to this substance also include a weakening of the child's immune system and even cancer.
Propylene glycol
This surfactant is the main component of antifreeze. That is, the same substance is used in the industrial industry and in the production of shampoos for children. Propylene glycol destroys the cellular structure and easily enters the bloodstream. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) warns that protective clothing must be worn when working with propylene glycol, as contact with the skin may damage the brain, liver and kidneys.
Quaternium-15
Quaternium-15 (quaternium-15) is used as a disinfectant, antibacterial component of baby shampoos. Like hydantoin, it is capable of releasing formaldehyde, the carcinogenic properties of which have been known for a long time.
In 2011, Johnsons & Johnsons, under pressure from the international community, agreed to remove quaternium-15 and 1, 4-dioxane from children's products, although the new version of the products is exported only to some European countries.
Unfortunately, the inscription "for children" does not guarantee the safety of using the product, so you should carefully read the composition of the shampoos in order to avoid unpleasant consequences for the health, and sometimes the life of your baby.
