Baby Shampoo

Because the selection of baby shampoo is so vast, choosing the best product can be a huge challenge. However, given that parents only want nothing less than the best for their babies, each of them should be more than willing to take on that challenge.

Due to the fact that a baby’s skin is very sensitive, the best baby shampoo is one that is very mild. And since there is the risk that the baby shampoo will get inside the baby’s mouth or eyes, it should be safe enough so as not to cause any harmful effects.

Every baby shampoo should be specially formulated to soothingly cleanse, moisturize, as well as protect the baby’s hair and scalp. They should not have the additives and other ingredients found in adult shampoos. When choosing from among the ones available in the market, buy the one that does not contain alcohol or soap. Natural baby shampoo or the organic baby shampoo type is also a good choice as it does away with the harmful chemicals contained in the others. These are formulated to benefit the baby’s skin and hair, as well as the environment. Most often, essential oils are used instead of the chemical-based scents.

Certain products also come as dermatologically-tested. This means that they recognize how sensitive baby’s skin is and are most likely the milder options. Hypoallergenic baby shampoos are those which take out the usual irritants and allergens that babies are most allergic to. It is a fact that some babies possess greater allergic reactions than others. Thus, products with this label are a good choice. Babies who are born with dry and a more sensitive skin type can benefit from these products, as well as those which do not contain any fragrance at all.

Experts say that a baby’s hair only requires washing once every week, and with the smallest amount of baby shampoo possible. Some dermatologists say that washing should not be done for two consecutive days. It is also important that rinsing is not done over the baby’s face. Regardless what type of baby shampoo the baby is using, it is crucial that rinsing is thorough as product residue is likely to cause irritation.

Another important factor that should influence selection is the pH of baby shampoo. Although most of the ones available prevent stinging when they accidentally get into the baby’s eyes, most of these still contain high pH levels. Such pH levels can lead to hair tangling, which will eventually cause hair damage. Most shampoos specify the pH levels on their labels. A good choice would be a balanced pH or that which falls between 4.5 and 6.0. If the label does not show the pH level of the product, you can test it yourself with a Nitrazine paper.

While shampooing is a vital part of overall hygiene, it does not mean applying too much pressure on the baby’s head. Proper hair and scalp care is not only dependent on the choice of baby shampoo, but the actual method of shampooing itself. Make sure that pressure is not applied on the soft area on the baby’s head. Even children up to 5 years old are sensitive to pressure applied to their scalps. It is also important to note that detangling the hair is necessary before it is shampooed.

Children hate having their hair washed probably because of their unpleasant experiences, such as pain from tangled hair, or stinging in their eyes from the shampoo. If these can be avoided, babies will not only learn that shampooing is an essential habit, but will grow up looking forward to the ritual as well.