Parents in India are increasingly vigilant about their children's well-being, but a skin expert warns that common products in the bathroom cabinet might be doing more harm than good. Dr. Noble Road, a dermatologist, has taken to Instagram to highlight several everyday items that could be negatively impacting kids' health.
Common Culprits in Kids' Skincare
In a detailed video, Dr. Road identified specific products that parents should reconsider. The first item on his cautionary list is conventional sunscreen. He explained that many such sunscreens contain oxybenzone, a known hormone disruptor that can interfere with a child's delicate endocrine system. Another ingredient, retinol palmitate, may cause skin inflammation and has potential carcinogenic effects when exposed to sunlight. Added fragrances in these products can also trigger allergies and headaches.
His primary recommendation is to limit direct sun exposure, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. For necessary protection, he advises using sun hats, protective clothing, and switching to a mineral-based sunscreen.
From Soaps to Lip Balms: Hidden Dangers
The second category of concern includes antibacterial and antimicrobial soaps. Dr. Road argues that overuse of these products can weaken a child's developing immune system by not allowing them exposure to everyday germs. He advocates for the simple use of water and traditional soap with minimal ingredients.
Conventional lip balms, like ChapStick, were flagged as the third hazard. These often contain parabens and other endocrine disruptors, along with allergenic fragrances and drying agents like alcohol, which can worsen chapping. Instead, the dermatologist recommends natural balms made with tallow, shea butter, coconut oil, or beeswax, noting that even popular brands like Burt's Bees may not qualify as truly natural.
Baby Oil and Shampoo Under Scrutiny
Dr. Road specifically called out Johnson & Johnson baby oil, stating it contains mineral oils that can trap bacteria and prevent the skin from breathing naturally. Its fragrances can disrupt hormones, irritate skin, and cause overwhelming reactions in young children. His alternative is organic, fragrance-free oils.
Finally, he addressed conventional shampoos, which frequently contain sulfates that strip natural oils and formaldehyde—a known carcinogen. He believes parents often overwash children's hair but suggests opting for organic, fragrance-free shampoos when needed.
Dr. Road concluded with crucial advice for parents: always check product ingredients carefully, as terms like "natural" or "safe for kids" are not strictly regulated. He also strongly recommends performing a patch test with any new product, applying it to a small skin area and waiting a day to check for irritation. "After all, our skin is the largest organ," he stated, urging a collective effort toward safer, healthier choices for children's skin.
