Finding the perfect baby shower routine can feel overwhelming with the sheer number of products available. This honest review dives into my experience testing several popular brands, focusing on gentleness and effectiveness for sensitive skin. I experimented with Dove's Sensitive Skin wash, Dr. Bronner's 18-in-1 Hemp Baby soap, Native deodorant, Baby Magic lotion, and Beloved body mist. My goal was to discover which products lived up to the hype and which fell short, offering a realistic assessment to help fellow parents navigate the world of baby-friendly skincare.This experiment went beyond simply trying the products; I evaluated their cleansing power, moisturizing capabilities, and overall scent. I'll share my honest opinions, highlighting both the pros and cons of each product. Whether you're looking for a gentle cleanser, a long-lasting deodorant, or a subtly scented body mist, this review offers valuable insights and hopefully helps you build a shower routine that suits your needs and the needs of your little one. Get ready for a transparent look at my journey through the world of baby shower products!
Pros And Cons
- Didn't dry out skin
- Didn't provide a clean feeling
- Didn't make a lot of suds
- Smells good
- Lasts (at least for mall activities)
- Gentle
- Cleansing
- Good replacement for other soap
Read more: 5 Best Baby Shampoos with Vitamin E for Soft, Healthy Hair
Baby Dove Sensitive Skin Wash & Silicone Body Scrubber
I started my shower routine with Dove's Sensitive Skin hypoallergenic wash. Instead of a regular washcloth, I used a silicone body scrubber I'd seen on TikTok. The scrubber has a compartment to hold the wash, making it easy to lather. Adding water to the soap in the scrubber created a better lather.
While the wash didn't dry my skin, it lacked the deep-clean feeling I get from my regular Dove body wash. It produced less lather, likely due to the absence of sulfates. If you prioritize a squeaky-clean feeling, this might not be your ideal choice, even with sensitive skin.
The silicone scrubber itself is a convenient addition to any shower routine. It allows for thorough cleansing and exfoliation. I appreciate the design that allows for easy soap dispensing and lathering.
Dr. Bronner's 18-in-1 Hemp Baby Castile Soap
Next, I tried Dr. Bronner's 18-in-1 Hemp Baby Unscented Pure Castile Soap. This soap requires dilution; I added a few drops to a washcloth full of water. The dilution process is standard for castile soaps.
I found this soap to be very gentle yet effective at cleansing. It is a good alternative to other soaps, particularly for sensitive skin. The unscented nature makes it suitable for those with fragrance sensitivities.
I preferred the cleansing power of this soap compared to the Dove baby wash. It provided a more thorough clean feeling without drying my skin.
Post-Shower Products: Native Deodorant, Baby Magic Lotion, and Beloved Body Mist
After showering, I used Native's Cucumber & Mint deodorant. This deodorant smells great and seemed to last through a trip to the mall, but I need to test its longevity during a more strenuous activity.
I strongly advise against using Baby Magic lotion. The scent is overpowering and artificial, and it didn't moisturize my skin at all. This product is a big disappointment and I will be returning it.
Finally, I used Beloved's coconut and warm vanilla body mist. While it smells nice, the scent fades quickly. It's suitable for a light, short-lasting fragrance but not for all-day wear.
Overall Conclusion
This shower routine experiment revealed some surprising results. The Dove baby wash was gentle but lacked cleansing power, while Dr. Bronner's Castile soap was a standout for its gentle yet effective cleaning. The Native deodorant performed well in initial testing, while the Baby Magic lotion was a significant miss.
The Beloved body mist provides a pleasant, if fleeting, fragrance. Overall, the routine highlights the importance of considering individual needs and preferences when selecting shower and body products, even within the "baby" product category.
For sensitive skin needing a gentle yet effective cleanse, Dr. Bronner's castile soap shines. However, those seeking a more traditional, sudsy clean may find the Dove baby wash insufficient. Remember to check product ingredients for potential irritants.