Parents everywhere take great pains to choose only the gentlest and safest products for their little ones. But sometimes, contaminants can be created when certain ingredients break down after use, or combine with other ingredients. You probably won't find this level of detail on the product label. Here are some common baby product ingredients to avoid:
The detergent diethanolamine, or DEA, can interact with nitrite, a common preservative, to become a precursor of the potent carcinogen nitrosamine.
Products containing DMDM hydantoin, MDM hydantion, formalin, diazolidinyl urea, quaternium-15, and/or imidazolidinyl urea release formaldehyde when used.
Frequent inhalation of the mineral talc, which is found in talcum and other powders, can lead to a condition of chronic lung irritation called talcosis. Talc is also a suspected cause of lung cancer, and can be contaminated with asbestos, a potent cancer-causing material. If you need a powder, use a cornstarch-based product.
Other ingredients to look out for include:
Wetting agents and detergents, particularly chemicals called PEGs, laureths, and ceteareths, are frequently contaminated with the carcinogens ethylene oxide and dioxane (not to be confused with dioxin, a much different compound). Many of these cancer-causing substances can be removed during the manufacturing process, but only a few companies do so.
Lanolin, a natural ingredient obtained from sheep’s wool, is frequently contaminated with DDT-like pesticides.
Paraben preservatives (methyl-, propyl-, and the compound known as parahydroxybenzoate), have been shown to mimic hormones and disrupt the endocrine system.
Synthetic fragrances. These are almost always made with solvents and other hazardous compounds, and can cause allergic dermatitis.
In general, when it comes to baby care products, less is more. Use as few products as possible on your child’s hair and skin. Buy products with a minimum of ingredients, and those that use only naturally-based ingredients. Be aware, however, that some natural ingredients, like lanolin and talc, can cause problems, too.
For more information, visit the Cosmetics Safety Database from the Environmental Working Group.
To learn more about why children require special protection from common chemicals, see our special web feature.
For more about personal care products for adults, visit our web exclusive.
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