Is Lavender Oil Good for Babies?
Lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia) has been around for a long time and is one of the most popular essential oils thanks to its delicate and soothing aroma.
Of course, parents, particularly those interested in natural and organic skincare, want to know if lavender oil is good for babies too! So, let's find out if lavender oil can be used on baby skin and what its benefits are.
Benefits of Lavender Oil for Babies
According to skin experts, lavender oil is good for babies. However, it is still important to test the oil on a small patch of skin first to rule out any allergies. It's also a good idea to speak to your little one's dermatologist about it.
Additionally, be sure to always purchase organic and pure lavender oil, that too from a reputable source. Also, do not use undiluted oils on your baby's skin — it's important to mix essential oils with carrier oils (natural oils such as coconut oil or olive oil) and dilute them.
You can also try out baby products — lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and soaps — that contain lavender oil. Now, let's take a look at the specific benefits of lavender oil for babies.
Lavender oil can calm a fussy baby and promote sleep
That's right, lavender oil can be used to soothe and calm babies (as well as adults!), especially fussy ones, and has even been shown to promote sleep and improve sleep patterns. If your baby is having trouble sleeping through the night, lavender oil may be worth a try.
Simply add a few drops of lavender oil to your baby's bathwater or dilute it with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil or olive oil) and massage it into your little one's skin before bedtime. If you like to share bath time with your baby, you too can reap the benefits of lavender oil and experience relief from anxiety and stress.
Lavender oil can relieve diaper rash
Diaper rash is a common skin issue for babies, and lavender oil is a popular home remedy that can soothe and relieve this uncomfortable condition.
Simply add a few drops of lavender oil to a carrier oil like coconut oil and then apply it to the affected area after cleaning it. Lavender oil relieves itching, soothes irritated patches of skin, and has anti-fungal properties.
Lavender oil can help combat infant eczema
Infant eczema (also known as baby eczema and atopic dermatitis) is a common skin condition that can affect babies and children, causing dry, itchy, and red patches of skin. While there is no cure for eczema, lavender oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and thus can alleviate the symptoms, protect the natural barrier, and provide relief to irritated skin.
Simply add a few drops of lavender oil to a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil and apply it to the affected areas. You can also add lavender oil to your baby's bathwater or use lavender-infused organic baby products (particularly lotions and creams) to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
Lavender oil can be used to get rid of cradle caps
Cradle cap is a common condition that affects babies and causes scaly and crusty patches of skin on the scalp and other areas (such as the face, neck, and buttocks). While it is harmless, it can be unsightly!
Lavender oil, which is known for its ability to treat dry scalp and dandruff, can help to get rid of cradle cap by moisturizing the skin and reducing inflammation. Simply add a few drops of lavender oil to a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil and massage it into your baby's scalp. You can also add lavender oil to your baby's bathwater.
Additionally, you can shampoo your baby's scalp with a mild shampoo that contains lavender oil as it will help loosen the flakes and also moisturize the skin.
Lavender oil can soothe insect bites
Lavender oil is a natural remedy that can be used to soothe insect bites in babies. The oil has anti-inflammatory and healing properties that can help to calm irritated skin and reduce swelling. Plus, it can also help to prevent infection.
To use lavender oil for insect bites (particularly fire ant bites, spider bites, and bee stings), simply apply a few drops directly to the affected area. You can even mix lavender oil and aloe vera and apply this to your baby's irritated skin. However, if the insect bite is serious and/or your baby is having a reaction, please seek medical attention immediately.
Lavender oil can help with colic
Colic is characterized by crying spells and fussiness, and it usually starts when the baby is around 2 weeks old. The condition can last up to 4 months, and while it's not serious, it can be very stressful for both the baby and their parents. It is a very common issue in babies, but a 2012 study showed that lavender oil, when used as a part of an aromatherapy massage, is an effective treatment.
To use lavender oil for colicky babies, add a few drops to a carrier oil or shea butter and massage it into your baby's tummy and body. You can also try warm baths with lavender oil to provide comfort to your little one.
It’s also important to make sure your baby doesn’t swallow lavender oil (or any other essential oil) as it can be toxic if ingested. If your baby has licked or consumed lavender oil, take them to the doctor or contact Poison Control. Although a small amount of lavender oil is not poisonous if ingested, it’s still best to contact healthcare professionals as your baby might have an adverse reaction to it.
Lavender oil is beneficial for baby skin, though — just avoid applying this oil to their hands and feet, as they often tend to put their limbs into their mouth. Also, know that every baby is different, so do a patch test before making this essential oil a part of your little one’s skincare routine.
Enjoy the Goodness of Lavender Oil with Nature's Baby Organics
If you're looking for lavender oil baby products that are organic, toxin-free, dermatologist-approved, and specially formulated for sensitive and problem-prone baby skin, look no further than Nature's Baby Organics!
Our Shampoo & Body Wash Lavender Chamomile and Conditioner & Detangler Lavender Chamomile contain the goodness of organic lavender oil as well as other nourishing ingredients such as calendula, aloe vera, cucumber, and chamomile. Read more about the benefits of using organic products on your baby.