Our latest article is here to help you understand the rise in interest in organics and how it affects us and especially our little ones today!

Growth In Organic Products Today

Many people today have heard and know of the increasing popularity of organic products. Although the organic market is still very much in its infancy, awareness is growing and with baby foods leading the way, other sectors will follow. In fact here is already concern that demand may outstrip supply.

Like many parents, many worry about the health of their infants. Growing concern over the number of chemicals used in food production has fuelled the growth in the organic baby food market. However, concern over the environment is also a priority for these parents as is interest in ethical trading, as evidenced by the growth in Fairtrade.

Around the world, farms are converting to organic methods for crops and for fibres. Cotton farmers are beginning to reap the benefits of organic farming methods in decreased associated illnesses (and even deaths) and increased yields. New crops, particularly bamboo, are also being identified as an exciting source of raw materials for organic textiles and with many high-street brands entering the organic cotton market, the organic textiles market will inevitably grow.

Why use Organic Products on Baby’s skin:

A public health advocacy organization called EWG (Environmental Working Group) recently published a report on kid's shampoos and body washes. Their report was an eye opener. This Environmental Protection Agency confirmed that several of these washes and shampoos that we assumed to be safe for our children contain 1,4-dioxane which they refer to as a "probable human carcinogen." Dr.Philip Landrigan, professor of pediatrics and founder of the Center for Children's Health and the Environment at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, stated that "Infants and children, whose brains are still developing, are more vulnerable to chemicals than adults are But what you may not know is that you may also be putting them at risk for rashes or allergic reactions as a result of the simple use of lotions, shampoos, and diaper creams used on a daily basis.

We all know that babies have delicate skin, but did you know that a baby’s skin is five times thinner than that of an adult? As a result, their skin (the largest organ in the entire body) is at much higher a risk for irritation by harsh chemicals found in many skincare products, even by those targeted to children. While irritation can occur from synthetic fragrances, humectants, and surfactants in the products (used to create lather in soaps and shampoos), the real danger may lurk in the preservatives.

Preservatives are a necessary part of any product and play an important role in limiting the growth of bacteria that could harm delicate skin. Some such as sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate are relatively safe since they are mostly salt, but can irritate a baby’s skin. However, many baby products contain a class of preservatives called parabens (methyl, ethyl, propel and butylparaben), which act like hormones and disrupt the body’s immune system.

This hormonal link may be the most cause for concern. Parabens, used as food preservatives, are flushed out of the body during the digestive process, making them less harmful. However, when parabens are applied to the skin in a cream or lotion, they are absorbed directly into the body.

These are just a few common chemicals to avoid.

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (Sulfate)
A synthetic detergent/foaming agent which is commonly used in baby wipes & bubble baths. 

Sulfate can be a skin, eye and respiratory tract irritant and may damage the liver, lungs and the body's immune system 

Propylene Glycol
Found in shampoos and hand and body lotions, Propylene Glycol has been linked to widespread skin complaints and possible eye damage.

Petrochemicals (including mineral oil)
These are derived from crude oil and are found in baby oil, nappy creams, & petroleum jelly.

Petrochemicals strip the natural oils from the skin and form an oily film, blocking pores, which prohibits the release of toxins. They can also cause photosensitivity, chapping, dryness and premature ageing.

Ethyl Alcohol/Ethanol
Ethanol is used as a preservative and solvent and can cause dryness and irritation. Ethanol can increase the permeability of the skin and may enable unwanted impurities to be absorbed. 

Say It Baby's recommendations

So, whats so great about organics – well, they are “natural”, which means that they use plant-derived & biodegradable ingredients where possible.They do not contain any artificial colouring, parabens, sodium lauryl sulphate, petroleum-based ingredients, or any synthetic fragrance and detergents. Take a look at our great Earth Friendly Baby range of Toilietries and our lovely Organic Baby Clothes range - all great for babies sensitive skin.

Sources and further info:

Business Wire

http://www.redorbit.com/news/business/1034704/examine_the_international_perspective_of_the_organic_baby_and_toddler/index.html

Greenpeace

http://www.greenpeace.org/international/news/poisoning-the-unborn111?&CFID=3883759&CFTOKEN=64315008&MenuPoint=D-C

http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/browse.php?maincat=babycare

http://blog.mom4life.com/mom_4_life/more_than_skin_deep/index.html