If you’ve struggled to decide what shampoo is right for your kid’s hair, don’t worry, many people go through the same thing. Kid’s scalps are gentle so they need shampoos that are kind to their hair and skin.
Taking care of our children’s health usually means giving them nutritious food, helping them sleep, looking after their skin, and making sure they are always hygienic. However, selecting a shampoo that is gentle on children’s skin is a puzzling matter for parents. Is it better to pick a formula that doesn’t cause tears? What is the proper frequency for washing kid’s hair?
Why Scalp Health Matters for Kids
The thicker and undeveloped skin on a child’s scalp means that their scalp is more sensitive than an adult’s. Having a healthy scalp reduces itching, flakes are rare, and your hair becomes stronger. Yet, using strong chemicals, developing allergies, or using a wrong product can give kids a dry scalp or lead to problems such as cradle cap for infants and dandruff for older children. A majority of children might experience irritated or eczema-prone scalp at some point, as shown by a 2019 study on this topic. The proper shampoo helps your child avoid these problems and stay at ease.
What to Look for in a Kid’s Shampoo
There are differences in how each brand makes kids’ shampoos. It is suggested by AAP and experienced pediatricians/dermatologists that you should pick a shampoo like this for your children, since it will not irritate their skin or eyes. Pick eyedrops that are not made with tears and have been checked by doctors. Hypoallergenic shampoo is good for those who must deal with sensitivity and allergies. Shampoos that are very strongly scented may bother and irritate your scalp. Make sure that your shampoo does not contain synthetic perfumes. You should steer clear of substances like sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, and phthalates, because they take away your natural oils and end up making your hair dry. A shampoo with a pH close to the scalp’s natural level (around 5.5) keeps it healthy, per a 2020 article in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
Shampoo and its use to deal with common scalp issues in children
Cradle Cap can be difficult for moms to manage since it affects newborns. Until they are one year old, many babies may have cradle cap, which is seen as flaky and crusty patches on the scalp. A shampoo that includes calendula or chamomile can reduce flaking and make the scalp more relaxed. According to the AAP, using soft hair products and cleaning the scalp with a toothbrush is helpful. A good option to consider is Burt’s Bees Baby Shampoo & Wash, which comes fragrance-free and has natural moisturizers.
Dry Scalp When a child’s hair is dry, they may develop flaky and itchy skin on the scalp. Choose shampoos that contain aloe vera, oatmeal, or coconut oil for which can moisturize your hair. According to a study in Dermatologic Therapy in 2018, using such shampoo regularly reduced children’s dry scalp by 30%. One recommended product is Aveeno’s Baby Gentle Wash and Shampoo that has oat extracts.
These products are safe for both eczema and people with sensitive skin. Eczema-related flare-ups are less likely if the shampoo is extra gentle on kids’ skin. Choose products that are made for eczema sufferers or have ceramides in them. National Eczema Association advises using fragrance-free shampoo on the sensitive scalps of children. The experts advise trying Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo with calendula for anyone concerned with eczema. Mustela Gentle Shampoo its plant based ingredients, Biodegradable formula and its Safe for newborns
Dandruff problems in Adolescents Flakes and itching in school-aged kids may indicate that they have dandruff. Try shampoos with zinc pyrithione or salicylic acid for kids who won’t react to these, but consult a pediatrician before you use them.
Things to Keep in Mind while Selecting a Shampoo
Here are some easy steps to help you while shopping Check the label and look out for “pediatrician-tested”, “dermatologist-approved”, or “no tears”.
Check the list of ingredients: Do not use products filled with sulfates, parabens, and artificial dyes. Certain soothing ingredients are aloe, chamomile, and oat extracts. Depending on the nature of your hair, pick a shampoo that is right for your type. Before you use a product, put a bit of it on your child’s forearm to check for allergies.
If your child is suffering from eczema or chronic dandruff on the scalp, consult a pediatrician or a dermatologist for help. frequent washing gets rid of the essential oils, so the skin gets dry. Most kids should play organized sports twice or thrice a week.
If you keep experiencing flaking, redness, or itching on your scalp, see a doctor right away to ensure these aren’t the signs of eczema or psoriasis.
Be careful and wise when picking a shampoo for your child’s scalp. A quality shampoo helps cleanse the scalp, makes it soft, and avoids irritation, which helps their hair develop in a healthy way. When you choose tear-free, hypoallergenic shampoo and moisturizing creams when needed, your child’s scalp will be well taken care of. Dermatologists write in an article published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology in 2022 that using gentle shampoo regularly can lower kids’ scalp irritation by as much as 40%.
Let us know in the comments: which is your favorite kid shampoo that works wonders? 👇
Please note: This material and the content and information in it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Consult an experienced doctor or healthcare provider for some of the issues in your individual situation.