You may think of your skin as a barrier, but in reality it is more like a sponge. It can absorb up to 60 per cent of whatever you put on it. Children’s skins are particularly vulnerable to the chemicals in bath products and in the environment.

Children differ from adults in a number of ways that can increase their susceptibility to toxins in the home. For example:

• Children’s skin is thinner and more absorbent than that of adults, thus providing a less effective barrier to environmental toxins.

• Their immune systems are less able to defend against poisons and allergens.

• They eat, drink and breathe in more for their weight than adults, and so take in more toxins per kilogram. Even at rest, an infant will breathe in twice the volume of air as an adult.

• Crawling on the floor and putting objects in their mouths means that young children come into contact with dust and other potentially toxic particles.

Shampoos, body washes and moisturisers are all easily absorbed through the scalp and skin, so avoid using products that contain synthetic perfumes, colours and preservatives on your children’s skin. You should also avoid using harsh detergents and cleaning products, which can contaminate the air and surfaces in your home.

Checklist for children

• Buy fragrance-free, organic bath products (soaps, shampoos, body washes)

• Choose plant-based, gentle organic skincare products (oils, creams, toothpaste).

• Treat babies’ skins with the utmost care. Buy fragrance- and chemical-free baby wipes, nappy cream, and washable or biodegradable nappies.

• Read and understand the label. Avoid cleaning products (disinfectants, bleaches, aerosols, carpet cleaners) that contain harmful chemicals.

A dry skin solution

Using harsh toiletries on sensitive skin may be a contributing factor to rising rat of eczema and allergies among children. Although parents whose children have skin rashes often approach the problem by applying more products to the skin, cutting out baby toiletries altogether could be a more effective solution.

If your child has dry or irritated skin, try making your own herbal wash bag.

Cut the foot off an old pair of tights, about 15cm from the end, to use as a pouch.

Fill the pouch with a handful of oatmeal and, if you wish, some soothing herbs such as chamomile or lavender.

Tie a knot in the open end of the pouch.

Use in the bath or shower. One wash bag will last one day maximum – keep it in the fridge in a plastic bag if you intend to use it morning and night, but don’t try to store it for longer, as it can accumulate bacteria. When wet it will produce a lovely creamy liquid that will clean and nourish skin without drying it. Great for babies and children but also good for adults.