Natural Cosmetics for Kids: 6 Must-Haves

Published: 7 September, 2023 - Updated: 2 February, 2024 | 7'

When choosing cosmetic products for babies and children, more and more families are opting for natural cosmetics, with the aim of protecting their delicate skin. Natural cosmetic products are rich in natural nutrients and the benefits they provide.

Differences between the skin of children and adults

The skin of babies and children is different from that of adults, as during at least the first year of life it undergoes a process of maturation.

The main differences we find are:

Thinner skin. The skin of babies and children is on average between 20% and 30% thinner than in adults.
Less firm skin. Similarly, the epidermal cells in the skin of an infant are less interconnected than in adults. This means that there is less firmness and greater ease of penetration.
Less sweat and less sebum: Sweat and sebaceous glands are also less active in children than in adults, due to their developing endocrine and nervous systems. This affects the regulation of body temperature and sebum production. Because babies have a lower capacity to regulate their body temperature, they are more susceptible to heat stroke compared to adults.
Thinner cutaneous barrier. The lipid layer and its protective acid mantle are weaker in babies and children, making them more susceptible to water loss and the entry of harmful substances that can cause dryness, irritation, among others.
More sensitive to the sun. The low pigmentation of the skin, combined with a thinner cutaneous barrier, makes the skin of babies and children more sensitive to external aggressions, such as ultraviolet rays. Therefore, it is crucial to keep them hydrated and protected from the sun and other environmental factors that can damage their skin.

How to choose cosmetic products for children

As we have seen, the skin of children is different in thickness, maturation, and pigmentation compared to adults. That is why various pediatric, dermatological associations, and government authorities that regulate cosmetics have agreed on the "ideal" properties for a cosmetic to be used in children.

These would be the basic considerations to take into account when choosing a cosmetic product for children:

Correct labeling and packaging. The appropriate and proper instructions for use of the product should be clearly stated, and the design of the packaging should contribute to minimizing contamination.
Always tested. It is important that the products demonstrate their safe use by not causing irritation or sensitization reactions on tested skin areas. Both the finished product and individual ingredients should be analyzed to determine if some elements can interfere with the absorption of other ingredients, which may have potential risks for the product. Additionally, conditions of use such as the amount of product applied, contact time, frequency of use, and application area may affect the skin structure.
According to the Cosmetic Product Safety Assessment Guide, it is recommended that products be declared dermatologically tested. For example, in the case of bath products for babies or young children, it is important that they be dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested, with a neutral or slightly acidic pH (around 5.5), and preferably contain moisturizers and emollients.
Fragrances and perfumes. In general, it is highly recommended that cosmetic products for children avoid fragrances and perfumes in order to avoid adding irritants to the skin. If fragrances are added, they must comply with the regulatory guarantees of the International Fragrance Association (IFRA).
Preservative ingredients can be natural or synthetic as long as their safety profile is documented. Currently, in Europe, the use of preservatives that have been evaluated by the SCCNFP (European Scientific Committee on Cosmetic Products) and approved for the preservation of cosmetic products is allowed.
Thick creams for moisturization. In addition to it being essential for children to consume enough fluids, it is necessary to hydrate their skin externally on a daily basis, especially when signs of dryness are observed. To do this, it is recommended to apply a thick, perfume-free moisturizing cream all over the skin daily. Thicker creams are more effective than lotions due to their higher content of emollients and their ability to remain on the skin for longer.
Use sunscreen, even in winter. The choice of ingredients in specific sunscreens for babies or children should be very careful due to the characteristics of their skin. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional to check, for example, that no potential photosensitivity has been observed.
The general recommendation is that babies under 6 months old should never be exposed to direct sunlight. If sunscreen is to be applied to the child, it is suggested that it be water-resistant, applied 15-20 minutes before going out and reapplied every two hours. During winter, even though the sun may not shine as intensely, it is still important to apply sunscreen.
Protect the skin from cold and external aggressions. During seasonal changes and winter, it is also important to use emollients daily to protect the skin from dry cold weather and wind. Always choose cosmetic products that tend to provide hydration, soothing, and softness against environmental aggressions.

Natural cosmetics for children, a rising trend

According to the latest market research, over 60% of parents choose natural-origin cosmetics for their children, in addition to being ecological and sustainable.

This trend is explained by the growing industry and technology dedicated to finding better sources of cosmetics that adapt to children's skin, respecting its distinctive characteristics and causing less environmental impact.

Natural cosmetics can provide not only innovation but also a more environmentally friendly perspective, guaranteeing and complying with the processes and regulations required for safe and effective use in children.

6 recommended natural cosmetics products for children

Below, we propose 6 natural cosmetics for the care of the youngest members of the family that should not be missing from your "natural medicine cabinet".

Natural moisturizing body cream for children

Shea butter has multiple uses and benefits for the skin, thanks to its content of fatty acids and vitamins. One of its most common uses is body moisturization, as it helps retain moisture and the barrier between the skin layers, reducing dryness.

MARNYS Organic Shea Butter is perfect for nourishing and protecting the skin of the whole family and is suitable for children from 3 years old. It is made with Fair Trade ingredients and certified with 99.9% of organic origin ingredients.

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Repairing balm for children's nose and lips

External environmental factors such as the sun, wind, and/or cold air can affect the dryness of the skin on children's nose and lips. Hydrate the external area of the nose and lips daily to improve the integrity of the skin's barrier.

BioAtopic Nose and Lips Balm is the perfect natural cosmetic to protect and nourish them on a daily basis. This balm is dermatologically tested and suitable for children from 3 years old, with a pleasant strawberry scent.

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Atopic skin in babies and children

If you have first-hand experience with this condition, you have surely wondered, what should I do if my child or baby has atopic skin? To deal with atopic dermatitis, there are different guidelines: identify the cause, reduce contact, and use appropriate emollients or lotions daily. In addition, it is always advisable to consult with a specialist.

BioAtopic Repair is an intensive repairing oil that is perfect as an adjunct to the treatment of skin with atopic tendency, dry and very dry. It is suitable for babies and children, over 3 months old. It is an oil, with natural ingredients, that relieves itching and soothes irritation.

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Soothe itching on children's skin caused by insects or stinging plants

Do you know what you should apply to your children's skin after contact with insects (like mosquitoes or wasps), stinging plants, or jellyfish? Always have BiteRoll on hand, a roll-on with natural ingredients that soothes and comforts the skin.

This practical roll-on provides a cooling effect and immediately refreshes, relieving itching in the area after contact with insects, stinging plants, and jellyfish. Its ingredients are certified natural and organic. It is perfect for children over 3 years old, teenagers, and adults.

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Soothe children's skin after a bump

Another essential for our children's medicine cabinet is Calmiroll, a roll-on with Arnica and Harpagophytum, which comforts and soothes the skin, instantly refreshing it. Its ingredients are certified natural and organic. For children over 3 years old, teenagers, and adults.

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Eliminate lice and nits with natural ingredients

Finally, who isn't afraid of troublesome lice? Lendremar is a pediculicide with natural and biological ingredients that effectively eliminates lice and nits from the first application in just 15 minutes.

It is suitable for children aged 2 and older. Furthermore, it does not irritate the scalp or eyes, it protects and maintains the hair structure, and prevents resistance. The format is also very practical, in spray form and with a nit comb included.