As a new parent, you want only the best for your little one, and that includes finding the right shampoo to keep their delicate skin and hair clean and healthy. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect baby shampoo. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to help you make an informed decision.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Johnson’s Baby Shampoo
- Best Natural: Burt’s Bees Baby Shampoo and Wash
- Best Organic: Earth Mama Organics Baby Shampoo and Body Wash
- Best Tear-Free: Mustela Gentle Shampoo
- Best Sulfate-Free: Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo
- Best Budget: Aveeno Baby Gentle Wash & Shampoo
Buying Guide
- Gentleness: Baby shampoo should be very mild and gentle. It should not irritate the baby’s scalp or eyes. Look for words like hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, tear-free, etc. This ensures it is non-irritating.
- Tear-free formula: If the baby may get shampoo in their eyes, it is good to have a tear-free formula that will not sting their eyes.
- Hypoallergenic: Especially for babies with sensitive skin, hypoallergenic shampoo is a must. It should not contain any potential allergens.
- pH balanced: A pH-balanced shampoo is gentle and non-irritating for babies. It helps maintain the natural scalp pH.
- Fragrance-free: Fragrances can irritate a baby’s sensitive skin. Look for “fragrance-free” or unscented options.
- Mild cleansing agents: Gentle cleansers like coco-glucoside are mild and safe for babies. Avoid harsh surfactants.
- No parabens: Paraben preservatives are considered unsafe by many parents. Look for paraben-free baby shampoos.
- Dermatologist tested: Shampoos that are dermatologist tested are less likely to cause any irritation or skin issues in babies.
- Free from: Avoid shampoos containing dyes, triclosan, formaldehyde, and alcohol which can irritate the baby’s scalp.
- Safety tested: Choose shampoos that are safety tested as per the guidelines of paediatric organizations like AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics).
- Nourishing ingredients: Some baby shampoos contain natural oils and oils like coconut, olive, and aloe vera which nourish the scalp and hair. But they are not essential.
- Value additions: Some shampoos also contain value-added benefits like vitamin E, chamomile, etc. But they do not make shampoo inherently gentle. Harsh shampoos should be avoided regardless of any additives.
Best Baby Shampoo Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start using shampoo on my baby?
It’s generally safe to start using a mild baby shampoo on your baby’s hair once they begin to develop more hair, usually around 2-3 months old.
What ingredients should I avoid in baby shampoo?
Avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals like sulfates, fragrances, and parabens. Look for gentle, natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and chamomile.
Can I use regular shampoo on my baby?
No, it’s not recommended to use regular adult shampoo on a baby’s delicate skin and hair. Baby shampoos are specifically formulated to be gentle and non-irritating.
How often should I wash my baby’s hair?
It’s not necessary to wash your baby’s hair every day. 2-3 times a week is usually sufficient, but you can wash more often if your baby has a lot of hair or if they get particularly dirty.
What if my baby has a cradle cap?
Cradle cap is a common condition in babies that causes scaly patches on the scalp. Look for a shampoo that contains ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which can help to gently exfoliate and soothe the scalp. Consult with your pediatrician if the condition persists or worsens.
Final Thought
With the right baby shampoo, you can keep your little one’s hair and skin clean and healthy without any harmful ingredients. By following our guide and recommendations, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect shampoo for your baby’s needs.