by Molly Rouse
Happy National Bubble Bath Day, Naturally and Locally!
(with Promo Codes)
Did you know that January 8th is National Bubble Bath Day? Me either. But it is, and so we’re talking soap for mamas and babies, and we hope that when you are finished reading this blog, you’ll go relax in a tub…
Taking a bath can be super relaxing and lovely during pregnancy and labor, and it can be a time of bonding and snuggles when shared with a baby or older child. Baths can also be stressful for newborns and their parents, as babies are slippery when wet, and the babies often find the new experience of bathing to be over-stimulating. A way to help newborns feel more comfortable in the bath is to keep their arms against their chests to provide a sense of security. Parents, try having the help of another adult, as well as singing or talking calmly to baby about what you are doing.
So, happy National Bubble Bath Day….Bubbles are so fun for all ages, but not all are created equally in terms of safety. Though the skin is the largest organ in the body, most of us don’t pay much attention to the ingredients in our personal care products. There is a lot of crap mixed into most products, and some of it is scary – from carcinogens to skin irritants. So here is some info on what to look for and avoid when pregnant, breastfeeding, or bathing your new baby. Luckily, there is a lot of easily accessible information on this topic, AND Asheville, is home to some amazing soap makers!
Here is what to AVOID,:
Parabens (Concern: Endocrine disruption)
Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-like chemicals (Concern: cancer, sensitization)
Formaldehyde releasers (Concern: Contact dermatitis)
Isothiazolinones (Concern: Contact dermatitis)
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (Concern: Contact dermatitis, Environmental pollutant)
Petroleum Derivatives (Concern: Inhibits skin’s ability to release toxins)
Artificial color (Concern: Endocrine disruption, contact dermatitis)
Synthetic fragrance (Concern: Respiratory, neurological, skin, and eye damage)
Here is what to CHOOSE:
“Phthalate-free” products
Coconut, Olive Oil
Cocoa Butter
Beeswax
Goat Milk
Organic essential oils for fragrance
During pregnancy and postpartum, it is recommended to scale back on anything synthetic applied to the skin. The skin absorbs what is applied to it and toxins circulate in the blood stream, and to your growing baby.
Here are some local recommendations:
Mandelin Naturals Variety of scented soaps, as well as other pregnancy and postpartum products. Worth checking out!
Appalachian Natural Soaps Variety of scented soaps and other body care products
C & Co. Handcrafted Skincare Variety of scented soaps, moisturizers, cosmetics and other body care products
Essential Journeys Soap by the slice with many scent and design options
The Laughing Mermaid Variety of soaps and other bath products
Faerie Made Soaps and other body care products (including toxin free nail polish!)
Most babies only need a little bit of washing up for the first few months of their lives. They don’t get super dirty, so strong soaps are not needed or recommended. For newborns (after the vernix is absorbed and the cord has fallen off), I like to put a chamomile tea bag in the bath before baby gets in. This provides a calming fresh scent, without drying out baby’s skin or applying harmful chemicals. Babies’ bottoms are probably the part of them that gets the most dirty, and also an area of very sensitive skin, so be gentle in cleansing.
Our local soap-makers offer some lovely options for baby:
C&Co. Handcrafted Skincare: Chamomile and Lavender Artisan Baby Soap
Appalachian Natural Soaps: Baby Oatmeal Unscented Natural Soap
Mandelin Naturals: Buttermilk Bastile Baby Soap
Now that you are armed with knowledge of ingredients and ways so support our local soap-makers, hop to it, bather! Check out the coupons below and get yourself or baby in the bath! Enjoy.
Mandelin Naturals
25% off any order on Etsy and website
Promo Code: MOTHERSHIP2017
C&Co. Handcrafted Skin Care
10% Off Your First Purchase
Promo code: mamabear
Expires 12/31/17
Valid in shop with mention & online
Free shipping on order of $75 or more
Essential Journeys
20% off orders over $25
Promo code: BIKE2017
Faerie Made
15% off any order
Promo Code: 828isgreat
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