Why perfume can do more harm than you think
Perfume isn't just in your favourite scent, but also in day cream, shampoo, baby oil, body lotion, washing powder and fabric softener. Those hidden perfumes can contain hormone-disrupting substances and cause allergies, and only some of the ingredients have to be listed on the label. Babies in particular, with their vulnerable lungs and sensitive skin, are at extra risk. So choose perfume-free products, use less soap and learn to read labels.
Almost everyone has a bottle of perfume in the cupboard. But it isn't only babies; adults too can be affected by the substances in perfume. That is why at Kideo we deliberately choose not to use perfume in our childcare centres and to avoid strongly scented washing powders as well.
What is in perfume?
Perfume is one of the oldest man-made chemicals. It can be made synthetically, from chemical substances, or naturally, based on essential oils. What many people don't know is that perfume can contain a cocktail of chemical substances.
What are the hidden risks of perfume?
- Hormone-disrupting substances. Many perfumes contain substances that affect the hormone balance. This can lead to fertility problems and an increased risk of certain diseases, such as breast cancer.
- Allergies. Perfume in products such as baby oil, shower gel or washing powder can cause skin allergies, especially in babies and young children. Their skin is still delicate and absorbs substances quickly, because the protective layer isn't fully developed yet. An allergy that develops in the early years often stays for life.
- Unclear labels. The label of cosmetics containing perfume only has to list some of the ingredients. A perfume can contain as many as 300 fragrances, of which only 26 have to be named. That makes it almost impossible to find out exactly what is in a product.
How do you protect yourself and your little one from perfume?
Although perfume can smell appealing, it is often better to limit its use, especially if you have a little one. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take:
- Choose perfume-free products. Use neutral washing powders without added fragrances. As an alternative to fabric softener you can use vinegar. It neutralises unpleasant smells and is a more environmentally friendly choice.
- Use less soap for your little one. Your little one doesn't need to be washed with soap every day; water is often enough. Do you still want to use soap? Then choose a natural option, such as olive oil soap or Aleppo soap.
- Care without harmful substances. After bathing, rub yourself and your little one with organic shea butter or a natural oil. A lovely option is the oil from Kenko, which has a subtle, gentle scent and is kind to the skin.
- Learn to read labels. Get to know quality marks and ingredient lists. That way you'll recognise more quickly which products are safe and which are better avoided.
Small changes, big difference
By consciously choosing natural and perfume-free products, you protect not only your own health, but also that of your little one. It may seem like a small change, but in the long run it makes a big difference.
Are you already taking steps to avoid harmful substances in your daily life?
Summary
- Perfume is hidden in day cream, shampoo, baby oil, body lotion, washing powder and fabric softener.
- Perfume can contain hormone-disrupting substances and cause skin allergies, especially in babies and young children.
- Of the up to 300 fragrances in a perfume, only 26 have to be listed on the label.
- Choose perfume-free washing powders, use vinegar instead of fabric softener and usually wash your little one with water only.
- Care for the skin with shea butter or a natural oil and learn to read quality marks and ingredient lists.
Frequently asked questions
Why is perfume extra risky for babies?
A baby's skin is still delicate and the protective layer isn't fully developed yet, so substances are absorbed quickly. The lungs are vulnerable too. An allergy that develops early often stays for life.
What do you replace fabric softener with?
With vinegar. It neutralises unpleasant smells and is more environmentally friendly than scented fabric softener.
Does my baby need to be washed with soap every day?
No, water is often enough. If you do use soap, choose a natural type such as olive oil soap or Aleppo soap.
