What is Mineral Oil?

Mineral oil is a colourless oil manufactured from crude oil (crude petrol). Otherwise known as:

• paraffin oil

• petrolatum

• paraffin wax

• liquidum paraffinum

It is a by-product of petroleum. Baby oil is 100% mineral oil usually with added (artificial) fragrance. Applied to the skin, it clogs the pores of the epidermis by forming a greasy film, interfering with the skin's ability to remove toxins. This can contribute to acne, allergic reactions and premature ageing, due to interfering with normal skin functioning and cell development. It has also been noted as a possible carcinogen due to the presence of PAH's (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) and a skin and eye irritant.

What is the concern with using 'baby oil' for infant massage?

As it is natural for babies to suck their hands/fist/thumb, the safety of a young infant ingesting mineral oil is an unknown risk factor. Mineral oil is not broken down by the body. Another concern is the added fragrance could interfere with the parent-infant bond as often the scent is over-powering for the baby.

Given the above information, I urge parents to:

• consider their baby's health and wellbeing

• seek safer alternatives

• inform family and friends

• question the manufacturers product information / labelling

Have you had any bad experiences using baby oil on your baby?

Further reading:

Pneumonia secondary to baby oil aspiration

http://journals.lww.com/pec-online/Abstract/1985/06000/Lipoid_pneumonia_secondary_to_baby_oil_aspiration_.7.aspx

References:

Farrow, K. Skin Deep. 2002, Lothian Pty Ltd, Victoria, Australia.

Michalun, N. Milady's Skin Care & Cosmetic Ingredients Dictionary, 2nd ed. Delmar Publishing, Canada

Essential Therapeutics (The Australian School of Clinical Aromatherapy). Aromatherapy and Regenerative Skin Care (Seminar Notes), May 2003, Perth, Western Australia.

Cherry Bond website http://www.cherrybond.com/oil%20for%20the%20neonatal%20unit.html

Online Toxic Ingredient Dictionary (mineral oil) http://myweb.westnet.com.au/ctarr/partyplan/toxicdictionary.htm

Wikipedia website (mineral oil) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mineral_oil

Gift ideas for the new Mum - Idibidi Kids Gift Certificates

Wow, we are into December already! Im thinking "where did the year go"?!

Idibidi Kids has some great products and services for the

new mum, or parents-to-be. Why not buy her an Idibidi Kids Gift Certificate?

Some ideas you could buy a Gift Certificate include:

• Christmas

• Mothers Day

• her birthday

• as a baby shower present

• after the birth of baby

We operate in Perth, Western Australia:

• Pamper mum with a Postnatal Massage for Mum!

This is a clothed, seated massage in an ergonomically designed, purpose built massage chair. When was the last time she had half an hour to herself, listening to relaxation music whilst given a massage in the comfort of her home? All mums should receive a Massage for Mum, especially in the first year after the birth of bubs. Natalie from Idibidi Kids has qualifications in both Indian Head Massage and Corporate Seated Massage and is fully insured, so you are in safe hands!

• how about a Gift Certificate for an infant massage course? Massaging your baby has many benefits. You have the option of Idibidi Kids coming to your home or centre in the Perth metro area. This way you can learn in the comfort of your home. Alternatively Idibidi Kids facilitates the infant massage course in Edgewater (max 5 parents & bubs).

• we have a great range of products - how about a bottle of Cold Pressed, Organic Massage oil? Ideal for baby massage or for mum herself. You can choose from Sweet Almond oil, Sunflower oil or Sesame Seed oil. All oils do not contain any preservatives, are cold pressed and organic.

Save money... use any Idibidi Kids service and you will receive a discount off any bottle of organic massage oil!