What are hypoallergenic baby products and does your baby need them?

What does hypoallergenic mean in actual terms?

The term hypoallergenic refers to substances that are thought to be less likely to cause allergic reactions. In general, when it comes to baby care, this signifies that the product may exclude harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances and colors, which may act as Allergens, including parabens, phthalates, or certain preservatives. 

Consider hypoallergenic baby products if:

• Eczema, cradle cap, or dry skin warning signs are in play for your baby.
• Rashes or redness appear after the use of some lotions or soaps.
• There exist such allergies, asthma, or skin sensitivities in the family.
• Your baby was premature or has extra sensitive skin

If your baby has no sensitivity issues:

You may still prefer hypoallergenic for peace of mind and preventive care, but they are not strictly necessary. 

How do you select truly hypoallergenic baby products?

To select the right hypoallergenic baby products, follow these general guidelines:

• Always read the entirety of the ingredients list, since some may be absent from the outside label.
• Choose things claiming to be fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested, and allergy-tested or clinically tested.
• Consider third-party endorsements such as EWG, National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, USDA organic, or the like in clean beauty standards.

Conclusion:

Hypoallergenic baby products simply are not a hype. This is a way to go about lowering your innocent exposure to anything that may irritate him during his most sensitive developmental phases. While not every baby needs them, hypoallergenic baby products are protective for babies at risk of skin and allergy reactions.

You should nonetheless ask your pediatrician or dermatologist for advice if your baby shows skin irritation or allergic reaction, and carry out a patch test before using any genuine product.