“Paraben-free” is printed on the front of a huge range of baby products, but it’s a label that’s often seen without much explanation of what it actually means. Here’s a straightforward look at it.
What are parabens?
Parabens are a group of preservatives that have long been used in cosmetics and skincare to prevent the growth of bacteria and mould, extending a product’s shelf life. They’ve been used in personal care products for decades.
Why do some parents prefer to avoid them?
Some parents choose paraben-free products for baby skincare simply as a precaution — preferring fewer, simpler ingredients for skin that’s still developing, rather than because of a specific proven risk. It’s worth noting that regulatory bodies, including Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration, permit the use of parabens within set concentration limits in cosmetic products. This article isn’t making a safety claim either way — it’s simply explaining why the preference exists.
What to check on a label
Parabens are usually easy to spot in an ingredients list — common ones include methylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben. If a product doesn’t list its full ingredients on the packaging, the brand’s website or product page is usually the next place to check.
What we do
Every product in our range, including our Goat’s Milk Baby Soft Bath, is formulated without parabens, added dyes or harsh chemicals, alongside being tear-free, soap-free and pH-balanced. If a simpler ingredient list is something you look for, that’s the reasoning behind the whole range.
