A new study, published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, reveals alarming data: the use of baby lotions on newborns is a leading cause of their exposure to parabens – preservatives widely used in cosmetics. This puts at risk the most vulnerable group – babies between 1 and 3 months old, whose bodies are extremely sensitive to external substances.
What does the study show?
The study measures paraben levels using biomarkers in the urine of babies aged 1 to 3 months and again at 12 months. The results are conclusive:
Babies whose skin was treated with baby lotion during the past week had 189% higher levels of propyl paraben and 355% higher levels of methyl paraben, compared to those who were not exposed to baby lotion.
Although the connection is weaker at 12 months, scientists emphasize that this is likely due to changes in exposure sources – such as dietary diversification or increased exposure to dust and other products.
Other factors, such as attending daycare, are also linked to higher paraben levels – most likely due to frequent hand washing and the use of cosmetic products in those environments.
Breastfeeding is not a source of parabens – but parents' cosmetics might be
The study highlights that breastfeeding is not among the sources of parabens. The authors suggest that passive exposure may come from cosmetics used by parents, through skin-to-skin contact.
📉 Although the measured paraben levels in infants are lower than in older children and adults, the findings raise legitimate concerns. Exposure to chemicals at this very early stage of life is risky, as infants’ bodies are still developing and lack fully established protective mechanisms.
🧠 "Babies are at a critical stage of growth, and their immature detoxification systems can make harmful substances more dangerous than later in life," the researchers point out.
Why does this matter?
Babies have thinner skin and a higher surface area-to-weight ratio, making them especially vulnerable to chemicals that come into contact with their skin. Scientists warn that even low levels of parabens can be hazardous during this critical phase of development.
The takeaway: Choose baby products without parabens!
This new study confirms what many parents already suspect: parabens have no place in baby care products. As a brand committed to health and transparency, YOGH believes parents deserve the best – formulas they can trust.
Ready for the YOGH change: 100% paraben-free baby care?
Discover the YOGH collection of paraben-free baby products – safe, gentle care for your baby and for you.
YOGH baby set at www.yoghcosmetics.com – the safe, caring alternative for your child.
YOGH baby products are:
🧼 100% paraben-free
💧 Water-free, and therefore preservative-free
🌿 Fragrance-free, alcohol-free
🔍 Minimalist ingredients
👶 Specially developed for sensitive baby skin
