Do Ingredients Really Matter in Baby Skincare?

Even before I gave birth, while my baby was still in my belly, I started questioning everything I was putting on my skin. If something absorbed into my body, could it affect my baby? What about once they were born—what would I be putting on their delicate skin every single day? I wanted to make sure I was choosing the safest, most nourishing options, but when I started looking at the ingredient lists on common baby creams, I realised that many contained petroleum-based ingredients, synthetic additives, and unnecessary chemicals.

That’s what led me to start making my own natural balm with ingredients that actually nourish, protect, and support the skin instead of just sitting on the surface. The more I researched, the more I realised how much better natural ingredients are compared to some of the synthetic alternatives found in store-bought creams.

So, do ingredients really matter? Absolutely. Let’s break it down.

What’s Actually in Store-Bought Nappy Creams

Many commercial nappy creams contain a mix of natural, synthetic, and petroleum-based ingredients. Some of these are beneficial, but others only provide short-term relief without truly supporting the skin’s long-term health.

Here’s a look at some of the most common ingredients found in shop-bought nappy creams, along with their benefits and potential downsides:

Petroleum-Based Ingredients (Not Ideal)

• Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly) & Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil)

• What they do: Create a protective barrier over the skin.

• The downside: These don’t nourish the skin—they just sit on top, preventing moisture loss but doing nothing to heal or restore. Petroleum-based ingredients can also clog pores and trap bacteria.

• Long-term effects: Constant use can make the skin dependent on external moisture instead of naturally balancing itself.

• Dimethicone

• What it does: A silicone-based ingredient that helps create a smooth texture and protective barrier.

• The downside: It’s synthetic and doesn’t actually feed the skin with nutrients—it just provides a temporary protective layer.

Barrier & Healing Ingredients (Some Good, Some Less So)

• Zinc Oxide

• What it does: Provides a strong barrier against moisture (common in nappy creams).

• The downside: It’s effective at preventing irritation but doesn’t hydrate or nourish the skin. Some creams contain high amounts that can lead to dryness over time.

• Lanolin

• What it does: A natural wax derived from sheep’s wool that locks in moisture.

• The downside: Some babies are allergic to lanolin, and unless it’s high-quality, it may contain pesticide residues from sheep farming.

Hydrating & Soothing Ingredients (Mixed Quality)

• Glycerin & Panthenol

• What they do: Help attract moisture to the skin (humectants).

• The downside: They’re helpful, but if paired with petroleum-based ingredients, they can trap moisture in without allowing the skin to breathe properly.

• Aloe Vera Extract

• What it does: Soothes irritation and has natural healing properties.

• The downside: It’s a great ingredient if in high enough concentrations, but in many store creams, it’s included in small amounts just for marketing purposes.

Additional Ingredients (Some Unnecessary or Questionable)

• Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Hydroxylacetophenone

• What they do: Help with texture and consistency.

• The downside: These are purely synthetic additives that don’t provide real benefits to the skin.

• Fragrances & Preservatives (Caprylyl Glycol, Tropolone, Grapefruit Extract)

• The downside: Some preservatives and citrus-based extracts can be harsh on sensitive skin, leading to more irritation over time.

How My Balm Compares: Natural Ingredients That Actually Work

When I started making my own balm, I chose ingredients that not only protect the skin but also heal, nourish, and restore it. Unlike many store-bought creams, my balm doesn’t just sit on the surface—it actually works with the skin to improve its natural barrier and hydration levels.

My Balm’s Ingredients & Their Benefits

Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii) – Deep Nourishment

• Rich in vitamins A and E, which help heal and repair the skin.

• Deeply moisturising, unlike petroleum-based ingredients that just coat the surface.

• Naturally anti-inflammatory, helping soothe any irritation.

Beeswax (Cera Alba) – A Breathable Protective Barrier

• Creates a barrier against moisture (like zinc oxide but more hydrating).

• Allows the skin to breathe, unlike petroleum-based ingredients.

• Has natural antibacterial properties to help prevent infections.

Jojoba Oil – Mimics the Skin’s Natural Oils

• One of the best oils for sensitive skin because it’s very similar to human sebum.

• Absorbs deeply into the skin instead of just sitting on top.

• Helps balance the skin’s moisture levels over time.

Castor Oil – Natural Healing & Protection

• Contains ricinoleic acid, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Helps soothe redness, irritation, and prevent fungal infections.

Why My Balm Is Better for Long-Term Skin Health

Unlike many store-bought creams that rely on petroleum-based or synthetic ingredients, my balm uses completely natural, skin-loving ingredients that actually help the skin heal and strengthen over time.

Here’s the difference:

Store-Bought Creams My Balm

Contain petroleum-based ingredients that sit on the skin without nourishing it. Uses plant-based oils and butters that feed and repair the skin.

Some contain harsh preservatives, synthetic stabilisers, and fragrances. 100% natural and free from unnecessary chemicals.

Often include zinc oxide, which helps but can also dry out the skin. Uses beeswax for moisture protection without the dryness.

Short-term relief but can cause dependency on external moisture. Long-term skin barrier improvement with regular use.

The Bottom Line: Ingredients Matter—Now & in the Long Run

When it comes to baby skincare, ingredients absolutely matter. The wrong ones might temporarily protect the skin, but they don’t nourish, strengthen, or heal it in the long run. Many store-bought creams rely on quick fixes, whereas my balm is designed to work with your baby’s skin, not just sit on top of it.

Since using my balm, my baby’s skin has stayed soft, balanced, and free from irritation—even when dealing with dry patches or changes in the weather. That’s exactly why I made it for my baby and started selling it—because I wanted other parents to have a truly beneficial, natural alternative to store-bought creams.

If you’re looking for a balm that actually supports your baby’s skin, choosing one with high-quality natural ingredients will make all the difference.

Disclaimer: The content on this blog is based on my own knowledge, research, and personal perspectives. It is intended for informational and guidance purposes only. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, I encourage all readers to conduct their own research, verify sources, and consult with relevant professionals before forming opinions or making decisions based on my posts. Additionally, none of the content on this blog is intended to be medical advice. I am not a medical professional, and any health-related topics discussed should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns. By reading this blog, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own choices and interpretations of the information provided.