Earlier this week, the Consumer Council (Hong Kong) raised concerns about the safety of body lotions for infants, after discovering that 22 brands out of 40 products tested contained chemicals that could trigger skin allergies or dermatitis in babies.
Out of the 40 products tested by the council, 8 that claimed to be “hypoallergenic” were found to contain fragrance allergens, while 3 that were labelled “fragrance-free” actually contained fragrances.
In particular, the consumer watchdog found that Aveeno’s Baby lotion contained hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde (HICC) and butylphenyl methylpropional (BMHCA), two fragrance and skin sensitizing chemicals that are banned by the European Union. The European Union classifies BMHCA as toxic to the reproductive system, while HKICC is known to commonly trigger skin allergies and dermatitis in children. In response, Aveeno Baby insists that the lotion’s fragrance ingredients follows the International Fragrance Association standards and requirements, but says it would replace the current product with a new item later this year.
When buying lotions for infants and children, always look at the ingredient label. Avoid products that contain fragrances, synthetic compounds or toxic chemicals. Look for flower, fruit or root extracts, minerals and essential oil ingredients instead.
Dr. Ardyce Yik ND 