Formaldehyde
In 2011, formaldehyde was classified as a “known human carcinogen” in a report by the National Toxicology Program, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Researchers found that long-term exposure to formaldehyde was linked to an increase in leukemia and brain cancer. It’s important to note that this exposure happened over many years, which is probably why manufacturers of products containing formaldehyde consider small amounts over a limited time reasonably safe.
Talc
Who doesn’t love the sweet smell of baby powder? It’s made from a mineral called talc, which is composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. Talc became associated with cancer risk years ago, when it was often contaminated with asbestos. The good news is that asbestos is not present in the consumer products sold today in the U.S.
Propylene Glycol
This petroleum-based chemical absorbs liquids and maintains a uniform moisture level in antifreeze and many other consumer goods, including some brands of baby wipes. It’s well known and accepted that propylene glycol is dangerous in high doses, but it isn’t clear that small doses on the skin cause harm. However, you should be careful to always put your baby wipes away immediately after use, so your baby or toddler doesn’t put one into her mouth. At higher concentrations, it can cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis.
Mineral Oil
Baby oil is one of the most popular infant care products of all time. Used exactly as directed,there don’t appear to be any major safety concerns about it. However, children have developed serious respiratory problems by inhaling small amounts of mineral oil. Apparently, it prevents the tiny hairs in the airway from triggering a cough when the liquid is inhaled. Since there’s no coughing, the mineral oil can travel directly into the lungs and cause serious illness.
Reducing the Chemical Load
Of course, you can shop for safer, more natural baby products. You can also minimize exposure to these substances by using oils, lotions, and shampoos sparingly, and only when necessary. There’s no need to slather your baby with chemicals simply because it “smells good.” Perhaps the easiest way to reduce the chemical load on their developing bodies is simply to read labels, minimize the use of skin care products, and keep plastic toys out of their mouths.
