Is it safe to use baby skincare products without checking for plastic additives?

What's actually in it

Baby lotions, creams, and diaper ointments are marketed as gentle, but the ingredient lists often include PEG compounds, acrylates copolymers, polysorbates, and dimethicone. These are plastic-derived or plastic-behaving additives that don't appear labeled as "plastic." Baby skin is thinner and more permeable than adult skin, so absorption is higher per unit dose.

Most parents don't read lotion labels with the same skepticism as food labels.

What the research says

A 2026 study in Environ Int did suspect screening of plastic additives in baby skincare products. The products contained dozens of additives beyond what was disclosed on ingredient labels. Many were known or suspected endocrine disruptors. Daily use on newborn and infant skin added up to measurable absorption.

For baby skin, simple is better. Plain coconut oil, shea butter, or jojoba oil covers moisturizing needs for most babies. For diaper rash, zinc oxide cream with minimal additives (Boudreaux's Butt Paste Original, Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm) works. Skip products with "fragrance," "parfum," or long lists of unpronounceable ingredients. EWG Verified and MADE SAFE certifications help filter the choices.