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by Renz Paulo Rodriguez  |  June 05, 2023

Pregnancy can be a time of great change for your skin. While there's no way to predict how your skin will change during pregnancy, there are some common changes that many women experience—and yes, they are as diverse and unpredictable as the women who go through them. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to a variety of skin conditions and issues, so it's important to know what you are up against. Take a look at several common skin problems associated with pregnancy, as well as ways to treat them safely and effectively.

1. Acne

Pregnancy hormones can cause breakouts in some women, even if they've never had acne before. Acne during pregnancy is usually not as severe as acne that you may have experienced as a teenager. It’s also not as common either—about 20 percent of pregnant women report getting it at some point during their pregnancies. If you're dealing with pregnancy-related acne, there are things you can do to treat it and manage it. Over-the-counter products like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide have been shown to help prevent or clear up breakouts while they're being used. You can also try prescription treatment options like vitamin A derivatives such as Accutane; however, these medications come with side effects, so talk with your doctor first before starting any new treatment program.

2. Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of your skin. It usually occurs in areas that have been exposed to the sun, such as your face, hands, and arms. There are many causes of hyperpigmentation including age spots, acne scars, and melasma, a condition affecting pregnant women. Hyperpigmentation can also be due to a variety of factors including genetics and hormones. During pregnancy, you may experience increased melanin production which results in dark spots appearing on your body when exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet rays from artificial sources like tanning beds or lamps, but these spots will gradually fade away over time.

3. Spider Veins

Spider veins are tiny red or purple blood vessels that look like spider webs on the skin. They are caused by poor blood circulation, which can occur during pregnancy because of hormones and increased blood flow to your growing baby. You are more likely to get them if you have varicose veins or a family history of varicose veins. Spider veins aren't dangerous, but they can be a cosmetic concern. They may appear on the face around your eyes (a condition called telangiectasia), legs (varicosities), and torso (striae).

4. Scars

Scars are a natural part of the healing process. When your body experiences an injury or infection, it sends blood and fluids to the area to fight off the threat. This causes redness, swelling, and pain in that area. The scar tissue that forms is called collagen, which helps hold the skin together after an injury has healed. Scars also protect against bacteria entering open wounds because they're hard and inflexible compared with normal skin cells. However, there's no need to worry about your scar disappearing completely: most scars have their own unique appearance and texture as part of your body's natural healing process—and they can be treated with a variety of methods like laser therapy or surgery if they bother you too much!

5. Cellulite and Loose Skin on the Stomach, Thighs, and Buttocks

Cellulite is a normal part of pregnancy. This condition is caused by fat cells breaking apart and creating a dimpled appearance. Cellulite can be reduced by exercising, eating a healthy diet, and using cellulite creams that contain ingredients such as caffeine, retinol (vitamin A), Vitamin C, or moisturizing agents. Some creams are available over the counter while others need to be prescribed by your doctor.

6. Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are a kind of scarring on the skin that appears as thin, white lines and can be itchy. They are most commonly found on your hips, thighs, buttocks, and stomach area but can also occur on your breasts, upper arms, and even lower back. Stretch marks can also appear when someone experiences rapid growth in their body such as during pregnancy.

If you're worried about developing these nasty lines during or after pregnancy, there are plenty of things you can do to prevent them and minimize their appearance if they do appear. To start with, make sure that you're eating well throughout your pregnancy—this will help keep your skin healthy and provide essential nutrients for both mommy-to-be and baby-to-be! Next up,  don't forget about drinking lots of water because hydration is key, especially if an infant's sucking on one side all day long. Finally, don't be afraid to talk with other moms about how they handled their postpartum bodies because everyone's journey looks different!

Stretch marks are a normal part of pregnancy. If you'd like to try to prevent them, use a stretch mark prevention cream that contains rosehips, safflower, and shea butter!

Stretch marks aren't the same as scars, despite their appearance. They are not caused by damage to your skin, but rather by stretching too quickly. When you gain weight or experience skin stretching due to pregnancy, stretch marks may form. It is important to remember that they can be made worse by other skin damage, such as burns and cuts; therefore it is important to take care of your skin during and after pregnancy so that you don't worsen any existing stretch marks or create new ones.

Here at Elizabeth Parker Naturals, we have formulated an effective, all-natural, and non-greasy formula that locks in moisture and hydration, improves skin elasticity, and relieves itchy skin to help prevent stretch marks in early pregnancy. It is infused with natural and organic ingredients, making it safe for you and your baby.

Don’t let unsightly scars stay with you for life after pregnancy! Our new Mommy Belly Butter Cream is specifically formulated to: 

• Helps prevent stretch marks
• Nourishes and hydrates skin
• Soothes itchy, growing belly
• Promotes skin elasticity 

Our best advice is to use powerful products and stimulating formulas including our Mommy Belly Butter Cream designed to calm, relax and protect the skin. Elizabeth Parker Naturals works to ensure that your skin gets the best care. Shop our collection now to protect and nourish your beautiful skin.

Gentle Reminder

Most of these skin conditions during pregnancy either disappear on their own or can be treated with over-the-counter products and by improving your hygiene routine. However, if you notice any new symptoms, have a talk with your doctor. If you’re having chronic hives or find that you are losing more than the recommended amount of hair after delivery, these could be signs of serious underlying health problems.

by Renz Paulo Rodriguez   |   6 min read

Feet are arguably one of the most important parts of your body, and if you want to take care of them, there are a lot of things you can do. While it might not seem like there's much you can do for your feet, there are actually many different types of foot problems and ways to treat them. In this article, we'll go over some common foot problems according to experts and how they're treated so that you can get started on making sure your feet stay healthy!

1.  Athlete's Foot

According to Mayo Clinic, Athlete's Foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal skin infection that usually begins between the toes. It commonly occurs in people whose feet have become very sweaty while confined within tight-fitting shoes. Signs and symptoms of athlete's foot include an itchy, scaly rash. The condition is contagious and can be spread via contaminated floors, towels, or clothing. Athlete's foot is closely related to other fungal infections such as ringworm and jock itch. It can be treated with antifungal medications, but the infection often comes back.

2. Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are patches of hard, thickened skin, according to Healthline. They can develop anywhere on your body, but they typically appear on your feet. Corns are small, round circles of thick skin. You’re most likely to develop corns on the tops or sides of your toes or the soles of your feet. They occur more frequently on bony feet that lack cushioning. Calluses are hard, rough patches of skin. They’re most likely to appear on the heel or the ball of your foot. They can also develop on your hands, knuckles, and other areas. Calluses are usually bigger than corns and yellowish in color. They lack well-defined edges. They may be less sensitive to touch than the rest of your foot. Corns and calluses are usually painless, but they sometimes become painful after an extended period of time. They can also cause pain if they become infected.

3. Dry, Cracked Heels

Dry skin, according to Medical News Today,  often appears on the heels and sides of the feet and between the toes. It may make the affected area feel itchy, tight, and even painful. Although this may be irritating, it is rarely harmful. Simple foot soaks, moisturizers, and regular exfoliation can reduce dry skin on the feet, remove areas of dead skin and calluses, and prevent them from returning. A lack of moisture is one of the factors that cause dry skin. 

Medical News Today states that dry, cracked, and flaking skin is especially common on the heel and sole because these areas have fewer oil glands than skin elsewhere on the body. Moreover, standing for too long or wearing poorly fitting shoes can put constant pressure on specific areas of the feet or cause friction on the skin. As a result, these areas of the feet may become dry, calloused, or cracked. Also, closed shoes, such as sneakers and boots, create an extremely hot and humid environment for the feet. Heat and humidity draw moisture from the skin, which can lead to dry, thick, or cracked areas on the feet. Regularly applying moisturizer to the feet can help prevent dry skin and wearing shoes that fit properly can support healthy feet.

4. Plantar Warts

According to Web MD, plantar warts and palmar warts are common, especially in children. These warts are named for where they appear on the body. Palmar warts occur on the hands and plantar warts on the bottom of the foot. Plantar warts are noncancerous skin growths, caused by a viral infection in the top layer of the skin. The culprit is a strain of virus called human papillomavirus or HPV. Many strains of the virus exist, and those that cause common warts on the hands and feet are not the same strains of HPV that cause genital warts.

Web MD added that warts are spread from person to person. The transmission can be indirect. For instance, a child with a wart on their hand may touch a playground surface that is then touched by another child, and the wart spreads. Or a person with a plantar wart uses a shower without wearing shower shoes and another person then uses it and develops a wart. The risk of getting a hand or foot wart from another person is small.

5. Heel Spur

A heel spur is a foot condition that’s created by a bony-like growth, called a calcium deposit, that extends between your heel bone and arch, according to Healthline. Heel spurs often start in the front of and underneath your heel. They eventually affect other parts of your foot. They can get up to half an inch in length. They may not necessarily be visible to the naked eye. Detecting heel spurs can be challenging. Heel spurs don’t always cause pain, and not all heel pain is related to spurs. Symptoms of heel spurs may include pain, inflammation, and swelling at the front of your heel. The affected area may also feel warm to the touch. These symptoms may spread to the arch of your foot. Eventually, a small bony protrusion may be visible. As a rule of thumb, according to Healthline, you should never push through any heel pain that develops. Continuing to walk, exercise, or wear shoes that cause heel pain can lead to long-term issues such as heel spurs. If you experience heel pain after any activity, ice the area and give your footrest until it gets better.

6. Dyshidrotic Eczema

According to National Eczema Association, dyshidrotic eczema causes small, intensely itchy blisters on the palms of hands, soles of feet, and edges of the fingers and toes. While the actual cause of dyshidrotic eczema isn’t known, it is more common in people who have another form of eczema and tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. Flares happen only on the hands and feet and usually begin with a rash of painful, deep-seated blisters called vesicles, although sometimes itching and burning sensations begin first. As blisters heal, the skin dries and often reddens and peels. This leaves it tender and dry and sometimes creates painful fissures or cracks. Skin can also become infected.

Helpful steps, according to National Eczema Association can include:

• Wash the affected skin with a mild cleanser and gently pat dry.
• Apply a heavy cream with ingredients like ceramides to help repair the skin barrier.
• Remove rings and other jewelry when you wash your hands so water doesn’t linger on your skin.
• Wash then moisturize hands or feet immediately after coming into contact with a potential trigger.
• Use stress management techniques.
• Keep fingernails short to help prevent scratching from breaking the skin.

Dermatologists can usually diagnose dyshidrotic eczema with a skin exam and medical history. Many cases improve quickly with a short course of topical corticosteroids combined with soaking or applying cool compresses to affected areas a few times a day to help dry out blisters. Because this form of eczema is sometimes linked to a fungal infection on the hands or feet, your dermatologist may prescribe an anti-fungal medication if needed.

There are many ways to care for your feet.

There are many ways to care for your feet. A healthy diet and regular exercise will help keep your feet strong, while footwear and foot care products can also help you stay comfortable, no matter what the weather is like outside. Healthy feet don't just happen overnight; it takes time to build up a strong foundation of good habits that will last a lifetime.  Foot problems are common, especially in people who spend a lot of time on their feet. If you have foot pain or other issues with your feet, take care of them properly to prevent these problems from getting worse. You may want to visit an expert for advice if you have any of the above conditions and symptoms.

Elizabeth Parker Naturals’ Organic Foot Cream

Finally, a non-greasy, natural foot cream that instantly starts working! Made with only the finest ingredients, like raw manuka honey, organic aloe vera, cehami, coconut oil, shea butter, MSM, blue-green algae, and more, our cream is specifically formulated to deliver every nutrient the skin needs for rapid healing.

This ultimate foot cream works with a wide variety of foot skin conditions including: 

• Dry Feet
• Cracked Heels
• Athlete's Foot
• Callouses
• Heel Pain Arthritis
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Dermatitis
• Corn

If you’re looking for high-quality skincare products, you can browse our beautiful collection now. We use natural and organic ingredients designed to calm, relax and protect your skin. Here at Elizabeth Parker Naturals, we work to produce the best skincare for you and for your baby.

You may also like to read:

• Athlete's Foot: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Prevention
• 4 Things You Probably Don’t Know About Treating Baby Eczema
• How To Reduce The Appearance Of Stretch Marks During Pregnancy
• Common Skin Problems You Should Know About During & After Pregnancy
• 5 Benefits of Organic Calendula Baby Balm

References/Citations: 

• Athlete’s Foot - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841 
• Blake K. Corns and Calluses. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/corns-and-calluses 
• Eske J. Best Remedies for Dry Skin on the Feet. Medicalnewstoday.com https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324909 
• Doheny K. Plantar Warts and Palmar Warts. WebMD. https://www.w;ebmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/plantar-warts-palmar-warts 
• Cherney K. Everything You Need to Know About Heel Spurs. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/heel-spurs#prevention 
• What is dyshidrotic eczema and how do you know if you have it? National Eczema Association. https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema/dyshidrotic-eczema/ 

Images Courtesy:

• Athlete's Foot: Masterton Foot Clinic
• Corns and Callouses: Seattle Foot and Ankle Center
• Dry, Cracked Heels: Natural Remedies
• Plantar Warts: Healthlline
• Heel Spurs: MedicineNet
• Dyshidrotic Eczema: National Eczema Association

by Renz Paulo Rodriguez  |  April 03, 2023

Each pregnancy is different for every woman, but one common trait most women share is that their bodies change and adapt to house another life. While this experience is an amazing journey for every woman, physical changes can leave you feeling uncomfortable in your own skin. One of these changes is stretch marks, which are caused by rapid weight gain over a short period of time. 

What Are Stretch Marks And How Do They Form?

 According to Dr. Latanya Benjamin, a double board-certified dermatologist and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, stretch marks are basically small scars located in the middle layer of your skin (dermis) that are visible in the top layer of skin (epidermis). They form when rapid weight gain or hormonal changes stretch the skin beyond its ability to repair itself. That’s why they’re called stretch marks.

Your skin has an amazing ability to stretch and adapt thanks to its collagen and elastin fibers. But when your skin stretches too fast or too far, it can tear slightly. When this happens, your body will immediately start working to heal the new scars. Despite our body’s natural defense mechanisms, small scars can still show up once everything is healed. Any sort of quick weight gain (pregnancy or not) or rapid growth spurt (think teenagers!) can lead to stretch marks, which means stretch marks aren’t just for pregnant women.

Stretch marks are most often associated with pregnancy because pregnancy hormones, like cortisol and estrogen, reduce the activity and effectiveness of the fibroblasts in your skin. This, in turn, reduces the collagen and elastin that give your skin its stretchiness. Couple that with your growing belly, thighs, and chest, and conditions are just right for stretch marks to form.

Every woman’s body and every pregnancy is different, but if you do develop stretch marks, you’ll probably start noticing them at the end of the second trimester or sometime during the third trimester. They usually form on a pregnant mom’s stomach, thighs, bottom, hips, and chest. As much as we would like to avoid them altogether, unfortunately avoiding stretch marks during pregnancy isn’t possible, however, there are ways to reduce the appearance of stretch marks while pregnant. Here are some tips:

#1. Apply A Stretch Marks Cream Or Oil

It's important to use a product that contains ingredients that help moisturize your skin, as this will help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Maintaining healthy skin during pregnancy is crucial in order to prevent stretch marks from appearing. If you want to keep them at bay and ensure they do not appear until after delivery, applying a stretch mark cream or oil twice daily is an easy way to do so!

As far as what type of product you should use, it's all about personal preference: some women prefer creams while others prefer lotions; some like serums while others prefer oils. If you have any allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in certain products (like parabens), be sure to check labels carefully before making a purchase!

Here at Elizabeth Parker Naturals, we have formulated an effective, all-natural, and non-greasy formula that locks in moisture and hydration, improves skin elasticity, and relieves itchy skin to help prevent stretch marks in early pregnancy. 

Don’t let unsightly scars stay with you for life after pregnancy! Our new Mommy Belly Butter Cream is infused with natural and organic ingredients, making it safe for you and your baby, and is specifically formulated to: 

• Helps prevent stretch marks
• Nourishes and hydrates skin
• Soothes itchy, growing belly
• Promotes skin elasticity 

#2. Eat A Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Eating more iron-rich foods (like spinach), calcium-rich foods (like milk) and vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus fruits) can help your skin retain its elasticity. Vitamin E may also help with preventing stretch marks during pregnancy by providing protection from free radicals that cause oxidative damage. And finally, eating more vitamin A and B can also protect against skin damage from inflammation by acting as antioxidants in your body.

#3. Drink Plenty Of Water

Drink plenty of water as it helps in keeping your body hydrated. Drinking at least 6-8 glasses of water a day is recommended. Water should be consumed with every meal and before, during, and after exercise or any physical activity. You should also drink water before going to bed and after getting out of the shower or bathtub as well.

This is because when you sweat from exercising or being in hot weather conditions, you lose substantial amounts of fluids from your body which need to be replaced immediately by drinking lots of liquids such as water so that your body does not get dehydrated due to excessive sweating during workouts or other activities such as gardening outside where there isn't much shade available for protection against direct sunlight rays hitting us directly on our skin surface areas (upper arms/legs/stomach area).

#4. Exfoliate Stretch Mark-Prone Areas Once A Week

Exfoliating once a week is an easy way to banish the appearance of stretch marks. It’s also important to note that not all exfoliants are created equal. You should choose a gentle cream or gel formulated with ingredients like glycolic acid or lactic acid, which can help slough away dead skin cells and promote healthy cell turnover.

Exfoliation does not involve using rough scrubs on your skin; instead, you want to use loofahs or body brushes (or both) to gently scrub off dead layers of skin. If you have sensitive skin, opt for an exfoliating scrub instead of a loofah or body brush because it will be gentler on your skin while still removing those pesky dead cells!

#5. Massage Your Skin 

You should massage your skin once a day, preferably in the morning. There are several ways you can do this: (1) Use a loofah or washcloth to gently scrub your body from top to bottom, using circular motions. Focus on areas where you have stretch marks, but don't be too rough—it's best not to use any pressure at all when massaging skin that is still healing. (2) Apply coconut oil or aloe vera gel onto dry areas of your body and then massage that area for about 10 minutes until it absorbs into the skin (or use lavender oil as an alternative). You can also rub moisturizer into your skin after washing up with soap and water if you think it might help prevent any irritation from occurring while massaging with oils or gels instead!

Takeaway

Stretch marks are a common occurrence during pregnancy, but you can take steps to reduce their appearance. The most important thing is to make sure they don't cause you any discomfort or pain. Stretch marks are really just scars that can fade over time, so if you're worried about them, talk with your doctor about getting them removed through laser treatments or surgery. You should also consider talking to a therapist about how stretch marks may be affecting your life.

Our best advice is to use powerful products and stimulating formulas including our Mommy Belly Butter Cream designed to calm, relax and protect the skin. Elizabeth Parker Naturals works to ensure that your skin gets the best care. Shop our collection now to protect and nourish your beautiful skin.

by Renz Paulo Rodriguez  |  March 06, 2023

Yes, it’s baby eczema. It's awful to see your baby covered in patches of red and inflamed skin, isn't it? The sight is almost unbearable. You want to help them, but you're worried about irritating their delicate skin. You should be. You've been eyeing for baby eczema cream or a steroid cream, but ended up looking for alternatives. You've tried a dozen soaps, as well as home remedies that haven't worked. Now what? If you thought eczema was only something babies get, think again. Eczema can happen to anyone, and it can be painful and bothersome to those who suffer from it. 

Here are 4 basic things you should know about treating baby eczema:

#1. Clothes Matter

You'll want to pay attention to the fabrics you're putting on your baby, as they can make a big difference. Cotton and bamboo are both good options since they're natural fibers that absorb moisture well. If you're planning to use a dryer, be aware that harsh detergents can irritate sensitive skin even more, so it's best to look for wool detergent specifically designed for delicate clothing.

One important thing to keep in mind when washing clothes is that some eczema flares are triggered by common allergens or irritants on clothing and bedding (like dust mites). Ideally, if at all possible, you'll want to air dry your laundry on a line rather than using the dryer. But if you don't have access to an outdoor space where this is feasible, try drying everything on a low setting and make sure the laundry room is well-ventilated while the clothes are drying.

#2. No Dairy

Dairy products can be a source of aggravation. While cow's milk is the most common offender, goat and sheep's milk products are also big culprits. As with all food sensitivities, it's tough to know which items your kiddo will tolerate, so if you're breastfeeding, you may want to cut out any dairy from your diet for a few weeks and see if there's any improvement in your baby’s skin symptoms.

If your baby is on formula, you may need to consider making the switch to one that contains substitutes for cow or other animal milk (like soy or hydrolyzed protein formulas). Luckily, there are lots of options out there these days!

#3. Nutrition

Your baby needs a lot of nutrition to grow, and they need a healthy diet while they're healing, so their bodies can develop and thrive. Unfortunately, many mothers who have never had a child with skin problems before may not be aware of how the two are related, or that their breast milk can transfer nutrients to the baby, which provides recovery from eczema.

The Mayo Clinic recommends foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseed oil and fish oil, for easing symptoms of eczema. These foods provide anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate itching and redness. However, if you're breastfeeding your infant, you should be aware that high-mercury fish like tuna can also pass through your breast milk to your baby.

Be sure to read labels on everything you feed yourself or give directly to your child while they're fighting eczema—including food packaging and ingredient lists on bottles of formula or baby food jars. Make sure there aren't any artificial sweeteners or chemical additives which could exacerbate the symptoms further!

#4. Baby Eczema Cream

Using eczema creams on a baby can help relieve symptoms. Baby Eczema Cream preferences will also depend on individual skin types. But one thing is for sure, adult eczema creams include chemicals not appropriate for baby skin.

Here at Elizabeth Parker Naturals, we have developed a solution to your baby’s skin problem. Using only the best ingredients nature has to offer, our Organic Baby Eczema Cream contains the perfect combination of vitamins, minerals, trace minerals, and amino acids to give you and your baby’s skin everything it needs to fully heal.

Medical-grade manuka honey, organic aloe vera, cocoa butter, shea butter, and some essential oils are just a sampling of the potent food-grade healing agents included in our formula. Choosing an eczema cream with a formulation specific for babies or infants can reduce the risk of reactions.

People don't talk enough about baby eczema, so here are some tips for coping with it.

#1. Don't use a normal moisturizer

Regular lotion contains alcohol and other chemicals that can make eczema worse, too. Use an ointment or cream moisturizer to keep your baby's skin moist, rather than a greasy feeling but not sticky like lotion does.  Elizabeth Parker Naturals’ Cradle Cap Baby Balm is also an effective and excellent treatment for the baby’s eczema. Made with natural and organic ingredients, it can be used from head to toe, smells gentle and light, and thoroughly absorbs into the skin. 

#3. Don't use normal body wash and shampoo

Even if you don't put any shampoo on his head, just the water running over his head may make his scalp itchy and dry enough to cause more eczema patches to appear there. Shampoos with fragrance or chemicals are even worse at drying out the skin.

Introducing our new 2 in 1 Organic Baby Shampoo and Body Wash. Using a gentle and innovative formula that contains soothing botanicals including aloe vera, calendula & chamomile extracts, our baby body wash cleanses & washes off dirt, germs & icky skin-cell residue to leave skin and hair clean, healthy & moisturized.  This responsibly sourced baby shampoo & organic body wash is specially designed for babies’ sensitive or delicate skin.

If you’re looking for high-quality skincare products, you can browse our beautiful collection now. We use natural and organic ingredients designed to calm, relax and protect your skin. Here at Elizabeth Parker Naturals, we work to produce the best skincare for you and for your baby.

by Renz Paulo Rodriguez  |  February 06, 2023

What is an Athlete's Foot?

An athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the skin on the foot. It can also affect other areas of the body that are exposed to moisture, such as between the toes and around nails. An athlete's foot is also known as tinea pedis. It is a common condition that is usually not serious but occasionally causes complications such as cracking, bleeding, redness and pain on walking.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Athlete's Foot?

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the skin. It causes small red bumps and blisters, itchiness, and sometimes sores that are painful to touch. The infection can spread to other parts of your body if it isn't treated. According to Mayo Clinic, athlete's foot symptoms include:

• Scaly, peeling or cracked skin between the toes
• Itchiness, especially right after taking off shoes and socks
• Inflamed skin that might appear reddish, purplish, or grayish, depending on your skin color
• Burning or stinging
• Blisters
• Dry, scaly skin on the bottom of the foot that extends up the side

How Is Athlete's Foot Diagnosed?

An athlete's foot can usually be diagnosed by a doctor by examining the affected area of your foot. Sometimes, the doctor may scrape off some of the scaly skin to test it for fungus. If you have athlete's foot and want to know what kind of treatment is right for you, talk to your health care provider about:

• How long will it take for my condition to clear up?
• Which medications are available for this condition?
• What side effects might I experience from these medications?

Who Does Athlete's Foot Affect?

Athlete's foot is a common condition that affects the feet. In fact, it is estimated that 3 to 15% of the population is affected. Men and older people are more likely to get it. Athletes' feet can affect anyone who wears shoes, but it may be more common in men than women and more common in teens and adults than children.

Athlete's foot is contagious and can be spread from one person to another by direct contact with the inside of someone else’s shoes or socks (for example, sharing a pair of shoes). You also might get infected by touching something that has been contaminated by an infected person’s skin flakes or sweat — such as towels used after showering — or through indirect contact with floors where other people walked barefoot (for example, locker rooms).

How Is Athlete's Foot Treated?

Athletes' feet can be treated with antifungal creams and oral medications. Treatment may also include the following:

• Keep your feet dry, for example, by wearing sandals in the shower or changing your socks regularly.
• Wear shoes that allow air to circulate freely around the toes by using cotton laces or leaving extra space between the laces and tongue of your shoe.
• Applying an antifungal cream every morning and evening in addition to other prevention measures is likely to help reduce symptoms faster than relying on one alone.

Elizabeth Parker Naturals Organic Foot Cream is a non-greasy, natural foot cream that instantly starts working! Made with only the finest ingredients, like raw manuka honey, organic aloe vera, Cehami, coconut oil, shea butter, MSM, blue-green algae, and more, our cream is specifically formulated to deliver every nutrient the skin needs for rapid healing. Our Organic Foot Cream can also be used for dry feet, cracked heels, calluses, corns, heel pain, arthritis, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

How to Prevent Athlete's Foot

If you are concerned about the spread of an athlete's foot, it is a good idea to avoid sharing towels, shoes, and socks with others. You should also wear flip-flops in communal locker rooms and keep your feet dry by wearing moisture-wicking socks. If you have an athlete’s foot, wash and dry your feet thoroughly after showering or bathing. Remember that keeping your feet clean and dry can help prevent the spread of fungal infections from one person to another

Takeaways

An athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin on the foot. The fungus lives on dead tissue of the hair, toenails, and outer skin layers. It can spread through contact with contaminated floors, shoes, socks, or towels. You can get athlete's foot if you wear shoes that don't let your feet "breathe" or if you share shoes with someone who has athlete's foot.

If you’re looking for more high-quality skincare products, you can browse Elizabeth Parker Naturals’ beautiful collection now. Our best advice is to use powerful products and stimulating formulas including our Organic Foot Cream designed to calm, relax and protect the skin. Elizabeth Parker Naturals works to ensure that your skin gets the best care. Shop our new collection to nourish and soothe your beautiful skin.

by Renz Paulo Rodriguez   |   7 min read

#1. What is diaper rash?

Baby diaper rash is the most common type of rash among infants and young children. It can happen anywhere on the baby's skin, but it's most commonly found bottom, groin area,  thighs, and diaper area, which is why it's often called "diaper rash." The rash is caused by an irritant or foreign matter on the skin rubbing against the baby's delicate inner skin.

#2. What causes diaper rash?

According to Mayo Clinic, diaper rash may be caused by the following: 

• Leaving on wet or soiled diapers for too long. The tender skin of babies can develop a rash if wet or soiled diapers are left on too long. Babies may be more prone to diaper rash if they're experiencing frequent bowel movements or diarrhea.

• Chafing or rubbing. Tight-fitting diapers or clothing that rubs against the skin can lead to a rash.

• Using a new product. Your baby's skin may react to a new brand of baby wipes, diapers, or a detergent, bleach, or fabric softener used to launder cloth diapers. Ingredients in lotions, powders, and oils might add to the problem.

• Developing a bacterial or yeast (fungal) infection. What begins as a simple infection may spread to the surrounding skin. The area covered by a diaper is at risk because it's warm and moist, making a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. These rashes can be found within the creases of the skin. And you might notice red dots scattered around the creases.

• Introducing new foods. As babies start to eat solid foods, the content of their stool changes. This increases the likelihood of diaper rash. Changes in your baby's diet can also increase the frequency of stools, which can lead to diaper rash. Breastfed babies might develop diaper rash in response to something the mother has eaten.

• Having sensitive skin. Babies with skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) or seborrheic dermatitis, may be more likely to develop diaper rash. The irritated skin of atopic dermatitis is usually in areas not covered by a diaper.

• Using antibiotics. Antibiotics can contribute to a rash by killing bacteria that keep yeast growth in check. Antibiotic use also increases the risk of diarrhea. Breastfed babies whose mothers take antibiotics are also at increased risk of diaper rash.

#3. What are the symptoms of diaper rash?

According to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, diaper rash causes the skin to look red and irritated. Affected skin may also feel warm to the touch. Parents and caregivers should call a doctor if a bright red diaper rash lasts longer than 48 hours or is accompanied by a strong odor of urine, which may indicate dehydration. Mayo Clinic says that the other times to seek medical help include when rashes form blisters or become weepy, or if the baby develops a fever. 

#4. When should I call my doctor about the diaper rash?

If your baby's diaper rash is accompanied by the following, you should call your doctor. 

• A rash with a fever

• A rash that's severe or unusual

• A rash that persists or gets worse despite home treatment

• A rash that bleeds, itches, or oozes

• A rash that causes burning or pain when your baby urinates or has a bowel movement

Talk to your doctor if the condition of your baby's skin doesn't improve after a few days of at-home treatment. Diaper rash may require prescription medication, or it could have another cause, such as a nutritional deficiency in zinc. The rash can also be a sign of an infection.

#5. Is it normal for the baby’s diaper area to be sore?

Yes, it is normal for the baby’s diaper area to be sore. The skin is sensitive and can be irritated by urine and stool. It can become red, inflamed, or raw due to these reactions. In some cases, babies may experience a small amount of bleeding from their bottom after they poop or pee in their diapers. This is most common during the first year of life because babies have not yet developed protective mucus membranes on their bottoms, so they tend to get more pain than adults do when using diapers for an extended period of time.

#6. How do I treat diaper rash?

The best way to treat diaper rash is to prevent it. According to Discovery Point Child Development Centers, the following are some tips on how to prevent diaper rash. 

• Do immediate and frequent diaper changes. Changing your baby’s diaper right after it’s been soiled is key to diaper rash prevention. Otherwise, the skin will be exposed to moisture and enzymes that can increase the likelihood of a nasty rash. Even if your baby appears comfortable and unbothered by a freshly soiled diaper, it’s important to take the initiative in keeping that bottom clean and dry, especially if they are prone to diaper rash or recovering from one.

• Air dry when possible. Providing your baby’s skin with plenty of time to dry out before putting another diaper on keeps the moisture from the previous diaper from transferring over. Just be sure to put down a towel or other absorbent material to avoid any accidents from happening in the meantime. Of course, you might not have time to spare in between every diaper change—that’s when a quick fan-dry can come in handy.

• Go diaper-free. Allowing your baby to go without diapers for a few hours each day provides constantly-diapered skin time to breathe and heal. It can be incredibly effective at reducing irritation. Placing your baby on a few diapering clothes or blankets can reduce any messes. This is a time-trusted technique when a baby can’t seem to break the cycle of getting and healing from a diaper rash. 

• Avoid super-snug diapers. While you don’t want any leaks to occur from wrapping your baby’s diaper too loosely, you also don’t want it to be so snug that rubbing and chafing become inevitable. If you find that your diapers always seem to be on the small side, it’s probably time to go up a size.

• Opt for irritant-free products. Perfumed detergents, scented baby wipes, and alcohol in soaps can make the baby’s skin unhappy and worsen areas of irritation. Instead of using wipes during the newborn stage, try a washcloth soaked in warm water to soothe sensitive skin. If it appears that your baby is particularly prone to developing rashes, you may want to try using only water for a period of time to see if soap-based products have been causing the irritation.

• Use a protective ointment. At every diaper change, apply a zinc oxide or petroleum jelly ointment as a barrier to the skin. A thick layer of ointment helps prevent moisture from making its way to the skin and thus works to heal irritation. Just be sure that no moisture is present before applying the ointment—otherwise, you may be trapping it next to their skin.

Diaper rashes are common, but with proper care, they can be treated and prevented.

Elizabeth Parker Naturals’ mission is to create products that are safe for babies' sensitive skin. We believe in the power of nature and want to celebrate it. We've worked hard to create an all-natural line of products that are safe for your baby's skin—and yours too! 

Our products are fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and hypoallergenic. They're also infused with soothing properties derived from plants and essential oils. We love our job so much that we want it to feel like a gift from the world—an opportunity to make something beautiful out of what is already beautiful in this world (and in us!). 

The following are some of our gentle yet effective products that will help you treat and prevent your baby’s diaper rash. These products are 100% made in the USA, responsibly sourced, and free of cruelty, sulfates, parabens, toxins, artificial fragrances, and other potentially harmful chemicals.

1. Organic Calendula Baby Rash Cream

Calm and nourish your baby’s sensitive skin with our Organic Calendula Baby Rash Cream. Calendula Baby Body Cream is specially formulated to relieve severely dry, irritated skin, baby rashes, diaper rash, chapped lips, and cradle cap. This baby skin care product quickly creates a protective barrier for every type of baby's delicate skin. Its non-greasy, organic baby formula absorbs quickly with no oily residue left behind.

This safe and gentle baby skincare cream is made with organic coconut oil, beeswax, calendula oil, and other skin-loving botanicals to soothe your baby's delicate skin. This diaper rash cream is packed with nature's best for your baby's sensitive skin and is not only great for cradle cap and diaper rash but also effective for any other cuts, burns, baby acne, or scrapes that might come up, ensuring that your baby is getting what they need to stay happy and healthy. For more information, click here.

2. Atopic Dermatitis Moisturizing Cream 

This Atopic Dermatitis face moisturizer & pain relief cream soothes & relieves signs & symptoms of atopic & seborrheic dermatitis, including redness, itchiness, swelling & flaking of the skin. Our moisturizing body cream deeply penetrates extra dry skin. Infused with nature’s finest ingredients, including Coconut Oil, Aloe Vera, Olive Oil, Plumeria Extract & Hempseed Oil, this eczema cream & body moisturizer hydrates & moisturizes dry & damaged skin while strengthening the skin's protective barrier.

Our anti-itch cream also works with a wide array of skin conditions including, diaper rash, cradle cap, rashes, sunburns, scrapes, bruises, psoriasis, rosacea, burns & more. This itch relief cream contains vitamins, minerals & amino acids that your skin requires to recover. Elizabeth Parker Natural’s moisturizing & hydrating face & body cream provides ultimate relief from dermatitis while providing deep & long-lasting hydration. No more itching, redness, swelling & flaking, only clearer, healthier & more supple skin! For more information, click here.

3. Baby Eczema Cream

Relieve your baby from pain & skin irritation with Elizabeth Parker Naturals’ Baby Eczema Cream. Using an innovative formula, this face moisturizer & body cream gives your baby a fast & long-lasting relief, making them enjoy a smooth & itch-free feeling. Infused with natural & organic ingredients that contain vitamins, minerals & nutrients, including Aloe Vera, Olive Oil, Manuka Honey, Shea Butter & Coconut Oil, our anti-itch & eczema cream for babies is made safe & pure for your baby's delicate skin.

Unlike ordinary facial skin care products & baby essentials, our face & body lotion for eczema also soothes & relieves a wide array of skin conditions, including dry skin, diaper rash, dermatitis, cradle cap, psoriasis, burns, scrapes, bug bites, scars, sunburns & more. With Elizabeth Parker Naturals’ Baby Eczema Cream, you’ll say goodbye to a bad night's sleep & welcome a more comfortable, peaceful & better night's rest for you & your baby. No more scratching, crying, or screaming! For more information, click here.

Gentle Reminder

As you can see, baby’s diaper rash is very common and there are many different reasons why this happens. However, in most cases, a baby’s rash does not need to be an issue for parents. With that being said, if you have concerns about your child’s rash or other symptoms such as itching or redness that could indicate an infection, then it is important to contact your doctor immediately so they can rule out any serious medical conditions before starting treatment on their own.

References:

Discovery Point. Discovery Point. Published March 10, 2020. https://www.discoverypoint.com/blog/diapering-basics-and-tips-for-preventing-diaper-rash/ 

Diaper rash - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Published 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diaper-rash/symptoms-causes/syc-20371636 

Heitz D. Diaper Rash. Healthline. Published February 27, 2020. https://www.healthline.com/health/diaper-rash#RiskFactors 

by Renz Paulo Rodriguez  |  December 05, 2022

All parents want the best for their babies. They want to be sure that they use only the most gentle and safe skin care products. They also want some form of treatment that can deal with diaper rash, cradle cap, eczema, and other skin conditions. The good news is that there is a potent solution: Calendula Baby Balm. This natural product can help your baby’s skin look healthy, smooth, and well-nourished.

1. Relieves Cradle Cap

 One of the most common skin conditions in infants is Cradle Cap. It's caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp and can be difficult to treat. However, Calendula Baby Balm has been shown to be effective in relieving cradle cap symptoms when applied directly to the affected area.

2. Nourishes Dry Skin

Calendula oil is a rich source of essential fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin. It also contains carotenoids, flavonoids, and vitamin C. This makes it a good moisturizer for dry skin. The vitamin E that calendula oil has is also known as one of the most powerful antioxidants available. This means that it can neutralize free radicals before they have time to damage your baby’s skin cells or cause other problems in their body.

3. Soothes Diaper Rash

Calendula Baby Balm is a natural remedy for diaper rash. Calendula is a flower that’s often used in skin products because of its soothing properties, but the herb itself has antioxidants and vitamins A, B1, B2, and C. It also contains tannin, camphene, and carvacrol which are antiseptic agents that fight bacterial infections on the skin.

4. Reduces Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that causes redness and itchiness, causing sufferers to scratch their skin until it becomes raw. The scratching can lead to bleeding and scarring, which makes eczema even worse. It's hard for people who have this condition to find ways to soothe their irritation or heal their damaged skin. Fortunately, Calendula Baby Balm is an excellent natural remedy for eczema because it helps reduce inflammation in the body and can be used on any part of the body (not just the face). The essential oils in this product help soothe irritated skin cells while also healing any damage that has been done by scratching or from other sources such as sunburns or insect bites.

5. Protects from Chapped Skin

Calendula is a great ingredient for protecting your skin from the elements. It's effective against the wind, cold, and sun, as well as dry conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for preventing chapped skin—and since babies' skin tends to be dry in general (especially in winter), this Calendula Baby Balm will keep them comfortable all year round. Calendula also has antibacterial properties that help prevent infection after wounds or cuts occur while playing outdoors or otherwise being exposed to potentially harmful bacteria on surfaces like playground equipment or park benches. It's even been shown to help heal injuries faster when applied topically!

Calendula baby balm can help with several different skin conditions.

As the name suggests, Calendula is a flower that is used in many different products. Calendula is known to be gentle and soothing, which makes it perfect for use on delicate skin. Calendula Baby Balm can help with several different skin conditions such as:

• Cradle Cap (also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis). This is a condition that causes flaky patches of thick and yellowish skin on an infant's scalp.

• Diaper Rash. If you're trying to find a natural remedy for diaper rash, look no further than calendula! This flowering herb contains anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and irritation caused by rashes.

• Eczema. If you suffer from eczema or another type of dry skin issue like psoriasis or rosacea then calendula may be just what you need! It has been shown to improve symptoms such as inflammation, itching, and redness which are common among those suffering from these conditions.

• Chapped/Winter Skin

• Dry Skin

Elizabeth Parker Naturals’ Calendula Baby Balm

Experience the benefits of a baby balm that calms, soothes, and protects your baby’s sensitive skin. Carefully formulated with the baby’s delicate skin in mind and infused with a custom blend of natural and organic ingredients like Manuka Honey and Soothing Calendula, this Calendula Baby Balm penetrates deep into the skin, protecting your baby’s bottom from wetness and discomfort.

• Soothes and relieves dry, irritated skin

• Alleviates skin discomfort associated with cradle cap and diaper rash

• Hydrates and moisturizes baby sensitive spots

• Nurtures and protects baby’s bottom

• Replenishes delicate skin 

Works in numerous skin conditions including diaper rash, cradle cap, eczema, chapped/winter skin, very dry skin, itchy skin, burns, bug bites, and baby acne. 

If you’re looking for high-quality skincare products, you can browse our beautiful collection now. We use natural and organic ingredients designed to calm, relax and protect your skin. Here at Elizabeth Parker Naturals, we work to produce the best skincare for you and for your baby.

by Renz Paulo Rodriguez   |   2 min read

Don’t let unsightly scars stay with you for life after pregnancy! Our new Mommy Belly Butter Cream is specifically formulated to soothe stretch marks and reduce the appearance of scarring during and after pregnancy. Elizabeth Parker Naturals stretch mark cream penetrates deeply, adding moisture and elasticity back to your skin. Perfect pregnancy gifts for first-time moms!

This is definitely a pregnancy must-have! Our shea moisture cream is made with organic shea butter, which contains both moisturizing and antioxidant properties to even out the tone of your skin—helping it fight stretch marks and scars. It's also infused with rosehip and sweet almond oil that help increase collagen production and promote healthy cell regeneration, and coconut oil, which is rich in fatty acids, keeping your skin feeling hydrated and nourished!

Get ready for tighter, smoother, healthier-looking skin with our Mommy Belly Butter Scar Cream. The all-natural formula melts into the skin, providing intense hydration and protection against any irritants while allowing your skin to breathe. With cocoa butter, which creates a protective layer of fatty acids, this stretch mark remover holds in moisture and prevents the skin from becoming dry. 

Our pregnancy stretch mark cream absorbs quickly into your skin, providing a protective barrier between the skin and elastic fibers underneath, and nourishing them from the inside. This skincare product is a non-greasy and lightweight lotion, specially formulated for expectant mothers. This highly moisturizing Vitamin E cream will keep your skin feeling supple, soft, and smooth. Undeniably, a postpartum essential!

Paraben-free, hypoallergenic, and safe for you and your baby. This high-quality vitamin E oil and body butter will make sure your skin stays moisturized and protected from stretch marks during and after pregnancy. Made with natural ingredients and essential oils including almond oil, lavender oil, and safflower seed oil, it smells great and helps keep your skin healthy by boosting collagen production and keeping skin elasticity intact.

Nurture your skin with skin-loving botanicals. Our long-lasting belly butter nourishes and hydrates stretch mark-prone skin and prevents stretch marks from forming. Stretch marks occur when the skin has stretched beyond its normal limits. However, soft and hydrated skin is less likely to develop stretch marks as much as dry skin. Can be used by itself or paired with your favorite body oil for a boost of nourishment.

Key Benefits:

• Deep stretch mark removal cream that soothes & repairs stretch marks & reduces the appearance of scarring during & after pregnancy.

• This stretch mark and scar remover protects, nourishes, and penetrates deeply into the skin–adding moisture & elasticity back to your skin.

• With cocoa butter, which creates a protective layer of fatty acids, this stretch mark remover holds in moisture & prevents the skin from becoming dry.

• Rosehip and sweet almond oils in this belly cream help increase collagen production and promote healthy cell regeneration.

• This extreme stretch mark removal cream evens out skin tone and keeps skin soft, supple, and smooth.

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There is much to be said about the Rose, its fragrance, color, and the like. Of late, there is much study being done about the benefits of Rose stem cells, and their ability to aid the production of new cells in the skin, thus reducing signs of aging, and enhancing the elasticity of the skin. It has also been suggested, that the rose stem cell can regenerate female comfort and heal eroded tissue which causes pain during intimacy. The studies show that the Rose stem cells also allow the body to create much-needed hormones in an aging woman.

The Alpine Rose

I want to introduce to you a beautiful pink flowering plant, the Alpine Rose, that can be found high up in the Swiss Alps. It grows –and thrives– in an incredibly harsh environment consisting of high-altitude dryness and freezing temperatures.

How does the Alpine Rose endure such environmental stressors?

Its resilience and regenerative characteristics help the rose to thrive.  Scientists have learned how these characteristics can also help support more youthful skin. The Alpine Rose contains stem cells that protect it against dehydration as well as the attack of radicals and pathogens.

These stem cells have amazing regenerative attributes, enabling the plant to produce new cells continuously throughout its lifetime, potentially living up to 100 years. This characteristic of the Alpine Rose stem cells is referred to as “totipotent.” Medical Definition of totipotent: capable of developing into a complete organism or differentiating into any of its cells or tissues.

Along with this vital characteristic, the Alpine Rose plant also contains high amounts of polyphenolic compounds (which protect the plant against radicals, as well as viruses and bacteria), taxifolin, antioxidants, and antiviral compounds; and are also optimized to sustain in a very dry environment.

The plant has adapted to its environment by developing scales on its leaves to limit water loss, as well as developing the ability to synthesize protective proteins which behave as tiny sponges, retaining water around the cell men.

The Alpine Rose stem cells can survive the frost and dehydrating conditions of dry air and cold. And this protection appears to support more than the plant itself, as studies have shown the same stem cells can offer protection to human skin as well.

In vitro and in vivo studies, the stem cells were shown to reduce the formation of carboxylated proteins. These proteins are a marker of skin aging. The stem cells were also shown to protect the skin against herpes occurrence due to their strong antiviral effect.In addition to the incredible Rose stem cells, we also used Super Peptides, it’s a double whammy for aging skin.

The Alpine Rose stem cells protected against damage induced by oxidative stress as well as defending against pathogens!

And in another study, Alpine Rose stem cells were again shown to have a protective effect on human skin, as they did within the plant.

Our skin’s epidermal cells are responsible for skin cell replenishment, and this process slows down as we age, taking 50% longer for replenishment to occur. This study demonstrated that one key measure of renewal, the ability for the cells to form colonies, increased as much as 75% when penetrated with a 0.15% Alpine Rose stem cell extract. Stem cells were better able to counter environmental stress and retain skin cell vibrancy.

The Eco cert (Organic certification) standard for cosmetics requires a minimum of 95% of the formula be plant-based ingredients and a minimum of 10% of ingredients come from organic farming.

And please note: the stem cell extract used in our products are not from human tissue of any kind (people do sometimes ask!). Plant stem cells are harvested from sustainably grown cultivation and are not detrimental to the host plants or the environment.

Because only the smallest amount of tissue is taken from the host plants but reaps unlimited cells from the one culture, the host plants do not need to be mass-produced. There is no mass-planting requirement, so water use is minimal as it lands requirement and disruption to the environment.

Who should use skin-care products with peptides?

You probably haven't met anyone who doesn't want smoother, firmer skin. So really, anyone can benefit from using them, even as a preventative measure. And here's the biggest pro when it comes to peptides: Pretty much anyone and everyone can use them. Unlike many other collagen-boosting ingredients-retinoids, even vitamin C-which can often have irritating side effects, peptides are generally fairly well tolerated by everyone, notes Dr. Bhanusali. While you should always check with your ob-gyn, they're typically okay to use during pregnancy, too. (Related: Safe Skin-Care Products for Pregnant Women)

Here's how to choose the right peptide skin-care product.

This can get tricky because peptides are one ingredient and it can be tough to determine what you're actually getting. “Given that you can call any short chain of amino acids a 'peptide,' many of the products out there tend to be more about marketing hype than actual efficacy,” says Dr. Bhanusali.

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 If a "no tear shampoo" doesn't contain anesthetics (as urban legend suggests), then why doesn't it sting sensitive orbs? The answer lies in a few subtle changes in chemical formulas.

Adult and baby shampoos contain surfactants (short for "surface active agents"). One end of the surfactant molecule is attracted to water, the other is repelled by water but attracted to oily substances. Surfactants work by reducing the surface tension of a liquid, allowing the shampoo to spread and penetrate better, and remove the thin layer of oil known as sebum from the hair and scalp . Most baby shampoos use detergents with long chain surfactants, such as sodium trideceth sulfate or nonionic polymers that are less harsh than normal detergents, and they use only small amounts of these cleansers in their shampoos.

Tear-free formulas also leave out surfactants such sodium lauryl sulfate, which can be irritating to the eyes and scalp. This does create a trade-off, though. Sodium lauryl sulfates – formed in part from coconut fat or palm kernel oil -- are the chemical agents in shampoos that get hair really clean (and give a nice lather). Although tear-free shampoos still clean hair, they don't remove oil as thoroughly. But since most babies don't do more than look cute and occasionally smear food into their hair, this usually works out just fine.

Keep this in mind, though: The purest shampoo out there doesn't necessarily mean you won't see any little tears at bath time.

Your baby's bathwater – without the use of baby soap or shampoo -- could still cause tears. It all depends on the pH level of the water, which is a measurement of the free hydrogen and hydroxyl ions in the water. A pH level measures water on a scale of 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. If the number drops below 7, the water is increasingly more acidic, which means it has a greater amount of free hydrogen ions. Above 7, and the water is increasingly less acidic (or more basic), which means it has a greater number of free hydroxyl ions. The pH range for human eyes is 6.5 to 7.6, with 7 being optimal. Any variation from neutral may cause your baby's eyes to tear, and it has little to do with the tear-free shampoo. 

THE HISTORY OF SHAMPOO

The first shampoos were simple affairs of water, soap and baking soda (sodium carbonate) mixed by British hairdressers in the 1920s. They called the mixture, "champo," a take on a Hindi word for massaging or kneading.

Author's Note: Why doesn't tear-free shampoo sting your eyes?

I have a confession. Something happened the moment I read "Why doesn't tear-free shampoo sting your eyes?" And it was an internal dialogue answer that went something like this: "because manufacturers use the same eye-burning ingredients in adult shampoos and sneak in anesthetics so babies don't feel it." Turns out, by the time I'd done oh-about-10-minutes-of-research, I knew I'd fallen victim to urban legend, too. How embarrassing.

Here at Elizabeth Parker Naturals, we use no such thing as anesthetics, we simply use more organic and natural ingredients.  Our baby Shampoo is for Babies, and the pH of the Babies skin is slightly higher than an adult.  If you are using baby shampoo, you may find it drying to your adult scalp.  Your pH is much more acidic (lower), so leave the baby shampoo to the baby, and buy one of our great shampoos. 

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