The Power of Calendula: A Guide to Nourishing Skincare for Babies and Children
February 18, 20232 min read
Author: Maria Tweed, MD
A few years back, my passion for skincare and love for my patients and kids motivated me to create a nourishing skincare line for little ones. In the process of developing the line, I delved into the science behind several medicinal herbs and plants. My research led me to discover the remarkable properties of Calendula officinalis, which I ultimately decided to feature in my products due to its proven benefits and efficacy in babies and children's skincare.
WHAT IS CALENDULA?
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a flowering plant that naturally grows in western Europe, southeastern Asia, and the Mediterranean. It has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes since ancient Roman times, with the name "calendula" derived from the Latin word "calendae," as the plant bloomed at the beginning of each month in the calendar year. Calendula is a common plant in gardens worldwide, recognized by its bright orange flowers and soft floral scent.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN HEALTH BENEFITS OF USING CALENDULA FOR YOUR KIDS?
Calendula's green flower base contains skin-soothing properties that are both protective and nourishing. In my research, I discovered that calendula offers several benefits for skincare, including:
Antibacterial
The oils and acids in calendula have been shown to be effective in fighting different strains of harmful bacteria.
Anti-inflammatory
Calendula's flavonoids, which are plant-based antioxidants, protect skin cells from inflammation and damage. The linoleic acid in calendula has powerful moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent treatment for inflammatory conditions such as diaper rash (1) and eczema.
Antiseptic
Calendula is extremely rich in carotenoids, which are precursors of vitamin A. These carotenoids are responsible for making wounds heal faster (2)(3) making calendula ideal for babies and children in preventing infection from burns, cuts, and bug bites.
12 WAYS YOU CAN USE CALENDULA ON YOUR CHILDREN’S SKIN:
With calendula's impressive medicinal properties, it's easy to harness its power. Below are twelve common skin concerns that calendula can help improve, making it a great choice for babies, children, and even adults with delicate skin:
Eczema
Diaper rash
Baby drooling/teething rash
Heat rash
Sore nipples when breastfeeding (and it’s non-toxic for babies, which makes it a win-win for new mamas and newborns!)
Sores
Wounds
Cuts
Insect bites
Sunburn
Chapped lips
Mild (first-degree) burns
Our Lovingly Soothing Balm, featuring calendula, is an excellent option to soothe these ailments, especially eczema. I'm proud to say that after extensive research, calendula is the star ingredient in both our Lovingly Soothing Balm and Lovingly Hydrating Body Serum. It's a gentle yet effective ingredient that offers numerous benefits for little ones' delicate skin. I love using these soothing products on my kids and can't wait for you to try them on your family too!
(1) “A randomized comparative trial on the therapeutic efficacy of topical aloe vera and Calendula officinalis on diaper dermatitis in children.” (ScientificWorldJournal. 2012;2012:810234. doi: 10.1100/2012/810234. Epub 2012 Apr 19.).
(2) “In vitro studies to evaluate the wound healing properties of Calendula officinalis extracts.”, (J Ethnopharmacol. 2017 Jan 20;196:94-103. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.12.006. Epub 2016 Dec 10.).
(3) “Traditional wound-healing plants used in the Balkan region (Southeast Europe).” (J Ethnopharmacol. 2018 Jan 30;211:311-328. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.09.018. Epub 2017 Sep 21.).
Sniff, sniff– What is that strong smell? It might be the added fragrance in your lotion, shampoo, cleaning products or little one’s skincare. As parents, naturally we want the best for our children. That includes caring for their delicate and sensitive skin.
Have you tried essential oils? This wellness trend is all over lately and some oils claim to help with relaxation, skin health, mood regulation and more. While essential oils have become a popular alternative treatment for many health concerns, it's important to remember that not all forms of treatment are safe for everyone, especially children.
Is your little one constantly struggling with eczema flare ups? Have you overhauled your family’s nutrition, home environment, skincare and still haven’t seen an improvement?
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More Reasons to Love Dr. Sylma
We love our kids (and yours too!). As parents, we know it’s a challenge to find healthy and safe products for our kids. That’s why Dr. Sylma strives to make your life easier. We source only socially and environmentally responsible ingredients. Our products are proudly USA-made, packaged in recycled materials and 100% cruelty-free. To your little ones’ best health!
I can’t even explain how much this balm has saved my little one’s skin. Beyond thankful to have found this lovely company. Only wish it came in a bigger bottle!
We use this for everything! Diaper rash, preventing baby acne, little cuts and scrapes from nails, and on noses to prevent chafing after runny noses. This is my fourth or fifth purchase, because I buy again and again for myself and for everyone I know at baby showers! Just wish there were a mini tube or travel version to make it easier to throw in the diaper bag.
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This balm is hands-down the best I’ve ever used—and my two daughters agree! In fact, we’re constantly fighting over who gets to use it next. They’re always raving about the amazing scent, how soft and smooth it is to apply, and the fact that it’s never oily or sticky. It’s pure perfection in a jar. Truly, the best balm out there!
I’ve struggled with sensitive skin, eczema, and psoriasis for most of my life. I try to use products geared towards babies and children since they tend to irritate my sensitive skin less. I’ve tried other natural products that still always caused burning and irritation. This balm has been a life saver. I had a few patches of eczema that were persistent for over 6 months even with the use of prescription steroid creams. I used this balm for 3 days and it cleared my eczema and it hasn’t returned. So grateful to have found this product and highly recommend!
