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Understanding Baby Skin: Why Formulation Matters At birth, baby’s skin barrier is fragile, immature and 30% thinner than a mature skin barrier with an acidic pH. That's why all Dabble Baby products are formulated at pH 5.5 to match the pH of baby’s skin.  Baby skin barriers: Are more susceptible to TEWL (Trans Epidermal Water Loss) Have difficulty regulated cold/hot temperatures Are prone to infection and damage (dryness, redness, itching, irritation) At 2-4 years, the skin barrier reaches skin maturity. The Role of Vernix: Baby’s First Skin Protector Babies are born with a natural vernix, a protective, waxy, white coating on newborn’s skin, made of water, lipids, and proteins. Vernix acts as a powerful: Natural moisturizer Temperature regulator  Antimicrobial barrier This is why many healthcare providers, and Dabble & Dollop recommend delaying baby’s first bath at least 24 hours. The Acid Mantle: A Delicate, Essential Defense Babies are also born with an “acid mantle”, which is their natural buffer system located in the upper stratum corneum (outermost layer of skin). An acidic pH is essential because it: Sustains the acid mantle’s function Regulates the microbiome, structural stability Helps control inflammation Shifts in pH can disrupt barrier properties and impact dermatologic disease processes, like Eczema. This is why it is so crucial that baby products need to be lower pH (5.5). Lower pH is also essential to ensure that bubble bath and hair and body washes used on baby are tear-free, and don’t cause any ocular irritation.   What do we mean when we say “Less Ingredients. More Love”? Using minimal ingredients means reducing unnecessary chemical exposures. It is essential that products used on baby are: Fragrance-free Gentle pH balanced Minimalistic We only formulate products with what is necessary and functional (a “do no harm” approach) to care for baby’s skin. Babies need a lot of love and skin to skin contact, and we want caretakers to feel confident about their care routines. We empower caretakers with evidence-based care, rooted in safe, proven, natural origin and microbiome-friendly ingredients. Our EWG-Verified badge further validates the safety of our creations.   Are you concerned about eczema? Sadly, 1 in 5 children will have eczema. The average onset is typically 2-3 months of age – again, this is why limited exposures is critical at this stage. If you suspect your baby has eczema, it is essential to get an accurate diagnosis from a pediatric dermatologist to identify triggers. Likely, allergy testing can identify a trigger (eg a food allergy or environmental factor). Pediatric dermatologists will certainly tell you to avoid fragranced products, but they should also tell you to watch out for long ingredient decks riddled with unnecessary, potentially irritating extracts that provide no value for baby skin. If a brand claims their fragrance is natural – ask them to be transparent about the fragrance ingredients. If they hide this, it is a concern – this means you could be inadvertently exposing your baby to potential allergens – they exist in nature too! Moisture Is Critical — For All Babies Cosmetic & Personal Care products, and even dermatologist-prescribed medications cannot cure eczema, because eczema is a disease, but they can help alleviate the symptoms if the products used are formulated properly. An essential way to control eczema flare ups is to relieve dry skin.  Dry skin leads to itching, scratching, redness, swelling, and tiny holes in the skin barrier that create an environment ripe for infection. So, whether your baby has eczema or not, it is critical that their skin be moisturized. A recent AAD study showed that using a moisturizer may make a difference:The group of children being moisturized developed 50% less AD than the other group of children. Dabble & Dollop baby utilizes proven functional ingredients like glycerin, beta glucan and jojoba for hydration and moisturization. When Is It Okay to Introduce Scented Products? Once your baby has reached skin maturity (typically 2-4 years), you can try Dabble & Dollop’s safely scented products. We recommend using Dabble & Dollop’s range of naturally-scented bubble baths, shampoos and body washes because: They are third party tested to be non-irritating  The scent blends are disclosed, making it easy for parents to know what scent components are perfectly safe for their children  We ensure all of our washes do not have any ocular irritation potential and use a third party to ensure this fact When a brand sells a scented product and does not disclose the components, it is impossible for caretakers to know what may be the cause of any irritation. Some parents may be tempted to try safely-scented products prior to 2 years old and that is entire up to the caretaker’s level of comfort with the disclosed scent ingredients.   Reputable Resources for Evidence-Based Care of Infant Skin & Childhood Eczema Infant Skin 101: Skin Barrier Function in Infants: Update & Outlook Pharmaceutics What is Eczema? National Eczema Association What causes Eczema? Maternal stress triggers early-life eczema through fetal mast cell programming (Journal of Nature) Can Anything Prevent my Child from Developing Eczema? (American Academy of Dermatology)

Starting today, we’re lowering the price of our 3-in-1 Shampoo, Body Wash, & Bubble Bath to $9.99 per bottle. We know how it feels to balance a family budget right now; we’re doing it, too. For a long time, you’ve told us that you love our bubbles but wished they were a little more affordable. We’ve been working hard to make that happen, and we’re finally in a position to do it.   How We’re Doing It: Since we source and manufacture everything right here in the USA, we’ve been able to avoid many of the shipping headaches and tariffs other brands face. As our company grows, we’re finding ways to be more efficient. Instead of keeping those savings, we’re passing them directly to you. Why We’re Doing It: Dabble & Dollop was started by a parent, for parents. We’ve never believed that "safe and high-quality" should come with a "premium" price tag. Our 3-in-1 line was designed to make life simpler: one bottle, three uses, and less clutter. We hope this new price helps our products find their way into more tubs and nightly routines across the country.   A bubble bath won't change the world, but it does offer a moment of peace and a chance to connect with your little ones. If this price drop helps your family even a little bit, we’re proud to make it. Thanks for being part of our story,The Dabble & Dollop Family   SHOP 3-IN-1'S

There’s nothing like a warm bath on a chilly winter day—especially when it smells like hot cocoa and marshmallows! Our Totally Tubular Hot Chocolate Soak is the ultimate cozy treat. Clean ingredients and all natural chocolate-inspired scents turn bath time into a sweet, sensory escape (no sugar rush required). Mix, match, and create wintery scent “recipes” using our 3-in-1 Bubble Bath, Body Wash & Shampoos and Mini Bath Bombs to make every soak feel like a cozy retreat. Jump to: Candy Cane Swirl Gingerbread Dream Toasty Marshmallow Snowflake Sundae Cranberry Cocoa Frosty Berry Bliss Citrus Cider Splash Cherry Bark Bliss Winter Wonderland Berry Nice Blizzard Caramel Snow Cone Cozy Cabin Cocoa Sweet Snow Day 13 Cozy Bath Recipes to Try Use any combo of 3-in-1s, lotions, or bath bombs. All Dabble & Dollop formulas are dermatologist-tested, safe for sensitive skin, and made with clean ingredients. Candy Cane Swirl MIX: Vanilla Whip + Strawberry Gel Sweet, simple, and perfect for littles. Gingerbread Dream MIX: Vanilla Whip + Tangerine Gel Cozy cookie energy with a citrusy wink. Toasty Marshmallow MIX: Cocoa Bath Bomb + Vanilla Whip Like marshmallows melting into cocoa. Snowflake Sundae MIX: Coconut Gel + Vanilla Whip Fluffy, sweet, and snow day approved. Cranberry Cocoa MIX: Cherry Conditioner + Cocoa Bath Bomb Tart meets chocolatey for a festive twist. Frosty Berry Bliss MIX: Blueberry Gel + Vanilla Whip Cool berries and creamy vanilla create a calming vibe. Citrus Cider Splash MIX: Orange Gel + Honeydew Gel Juicy, cozy, and market-fresh treat. Peppermint Bark Bliss MIX: Vanilla Whip + Cherry Conditioner Soothing, soft, and just the right amount of sweet. Winter Wonderland MIX: Coconut Gel + Lemon Gel Clean, bright, and fresh as new snow. Berry Nice Blizzard MIX: Strawberry Gel + Blueberry Gel + Coconut Gel Fruity, frosty fun for a winter day of play. Caramel Snow Cone MIX: Strawberry Gel + Vanilla Whip + Tangerine Gel Warm, creamy sweetness with a citrus zing. Cozy Cabin Cocoa MIX: Cocoa Bath Bombs + Coconut Gel Rich, comforting, blanket-level cozy. Sweet Snow Day MIX: Blueberry Gel + Vanilla Whip A swirl of sweet, snowy joy. Clean and Cozy All Year Long All Dabble & Dollop products are dermatologist-tested, safe for sensitive skin, and made with clean ingredients—so you can create endless winter recipes without worry. What recipes will your children mix up? Explore limited-edition treats, stocking stuffers, and bundles that bring the season to life—one bubble at a time. Shop the Hot Chocolate Soak Shop Holiday Collection

When the holiday hustle hits, finding calm, creative ways to keep little hands busy can be a challenge. That’s where Dabble & Dollop comes in — our gentle, dermatologist-tested products are designed for mixing, playing, and exploring the senses. This season, turn bath time (and beyond) into a sensory playground that’s safe, simple, and naturally scented. Each idea below uses our clean, USA-made 3-in-1s, lotions, and bath bombs. Jump to: Foam & Bubble Play Sweet Science & Fizzy Fun Winter & Snowy Sensory Play Scent & Imagination Games Calming & Cozy Rituals Why Sensory Play Matters Shop the Essentials Foam & Bubble Play Foamy Sundaes: Whisk a few pumps of 3-in-1 with warm water to create thick, fluffy foam. Scoop into bowls and “decorate” with sprinkles for pretend sundaes. Whipped Cream Bath Art: Turn bubble bath into peaks of “whipped cream” foam, then add food-coloring dots or bath crayons for festive art. Bubble Volcano: Mix baking soda and our 3-in-1 gel in a cup, then pour vinegar for a fizzing, foamy volcano — safe, sensory science at its sweetest. Sweet Science & Fizzy Fun Bath Bomb Excavation: Drop Mini Drops into warm water and let kids “rescue” them with a spoon or net. Mini Bath Bomb Painting: Crush bath bombs, mix with a few drops of water, and “paint” inside the tub. Designs fizz away at rinse time. Scented Slime (Oobleck): Combine cornstarch, water, and a small amount of 3-in-1 for easy, sweetly scented, squishy fun. Rainbow Fizz Jars: Place different colored mini bath bombs in a clear jar for a visual rainbow. Add water and stir to watch the colors swirl together. Winter & Snowy Sensory Play Scented Snow Sensory Bin: Mix baking soda with a bit of 3-in-1 gel for cool, crumbly “snow.” Use scoops, cups, or cookie cutters to build scenes. Scented Ice Cubes: Freeze diluted 3-in-1 mixed with natural food coloring into ice cubes and drop into warm bath water for sweet-smelling, sensory magic. Holiday Hot Cocoa Tub: Add our All Natural Cocoa bath bombs and Vanilla Whip 3-in-1 to a warm bath and let kids “soak in the season.” Scent & Imagination Games Holiday Scent Matching: Pump different Dabble & Dollop scents (Cherry, Vanilla, Strawberry) in cups and let kids guess which is which. Mix-Your-Own Potion: Encourage kids to create a “signature scent” by combining 3-in-1s in small cups (Strawberry + Vanilla = Sweet Cream!). “Sweet Shop” Pretend Play: Use foam or whipped bubbles as “ice cream,” “frosting,” or “milkshakes” for pretend café play. Mix & Match Lab: Set up a “lab” with beakers or cups where kids experiment with scents, bubbles, and fizz. Calming & Cozy Rituals Lotion Spa Station: Set up a mini spa with Strawberry or Vanilla Lotion. Kids can “treat” dolls, siblings, or grown-ups — a mindful way to wind down. Foam Prints: Spread whipped 3-in-1 foam on a tray, draw designs, then press paper on top to create bubble prints. Gratitude Bubbles: As you fill the bath, ask kids to name one thing they’re thankful for with every handful of bubbles. Bubble Relay: In the bath, challenge kids to blow bubbles from one cup to another using straws — giggly fun that builds coordination. Why Sensory Play Matters Sensory play encourages imagination, builds fine motor skills, and helps little ones regulate emotions. By engaging touch, sight, scent, and sound, kids explore the world in creative, calming ways — and Dabble & Dollop’s clean, gentle formulas make it easy for parents to say yes to the fun (without the chaos). Bring the Fun to Your Tub Shop 3-in-1 Shampoo, Body Wash & Bubble Bath Shop Mini Bath Bomb Pouches Shop Lotions   Whether you’re hunting for winter break boredom busters or memories that don’t involve screens, these 18 sensory play ideas will fill your home with giggles and good, creatively clean fun. Go ahead — mix, bubble, and splash your way through the holidays.

Jump to: Why Kids’ Skin Gets Dry in Winter The 3-Step Winter Routine Product Picks We Love for Winter Quick Tips for Everyday Comfort FAQs: Winter Skincare for Kids Safety & Ingredient Standards Why Kids’ Skin Gets Dry in Winter Cold air outside + heated indoor air = low humidity, which can make delicate skin feel tight or flaky. Add long, hot baths and heavy towels, and moisture disappears even faster. The fix isn’t more steps—it’s fewer, gentler steps done consistently. The 3-Step Winter Routine (Cleanse → Pat Dry → Moisturize) Step 1: Cleanse with lukewarm water (not hot) Short baths or showers are best—aim for 5–10 minutes. Choose a dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic cleanser designed for delicate skin. Step 2: Pat dry, don’t rub Leaving just a tiny amount of water on the skin is OK. Rubbing can increase friction; patting is gentler on the skin. Step 3: Moisturize within 3 minutes Apply lotion while skin is still slightly damp to help lock in hydration. Pro move: Keep your lotion right next to the tub so it becomes part of your bath-to-towel rhythm. Product Picks We Love for Winter 3-in-1s (Bubble Bath + Body Wash + Shampoo) A creamy, tear-free lather that cleans without stripping. Our washes are dye-free and scented with 100% natural fragrance (ISO 9235)—playful bubbles, gentle by design. Why it helps in winter: A soft cleanse supports your moisture routine—no harsh surfactants needed. What parents love: Minimal-ingredient formulas (10 or fewer), dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic. Shop 3-in-1s Lightweight Lotions Fast-absorbing, non-sticky moisture kids will love—perfect right after the bath. Why it helps in winter: Seals in hydration from the bath when applied within 3 minutes. What parents love: Minimal ingredients, comforting feel, designed for daily use. Shop Lotions Bath Bombs Short, lukewarm soaks can still be fizzy and fun. Our bombs use naturally derived colorants (never petroleum dyes) to keep bath time exciting—especially on chilly nights. Why it helps in winter: Fun encourages short, gentle baths, which is exactly what delicate skin prefers. What parents love: A playful variety of scents and colors that stay in the bath—not on skin or tubs. Shop Bath Bombs   Bonus: If static hat-hair strikes all winter, our Cherry on Top Detangler helps make brushing quick and tug-free, so you can keep bath time short and sweet. Quick Tips for Everyday Comfort Skip hot water: Lukewarm water is kinder to the skin barrier. Time your lotion: Moisturize within 3 minutes after bathing. Humidify at night: A cool-mist humidifier adds back moisture to the air. Fabric matters: Soft towels and breathable pajamas reduce friction. Rotate scents playfully: Keep routines fun with mix-and-match fragrances from natural sources—kids stay engaged, parents stay consistent. FAQs: Winter Skincare for Kids How often should my child bathe in winter? Aim for short, lukewarm baths or showers a few times per week, and quick rinses as needed for play, sweat, or spills. What temperature counts as “lukewarm”? Comfortable but not hot—think warm tap water you can leave your hand under for a full minute without discomfort. Are Dabble & Dollop products safe for sensitive skin? Yes—our formulas are dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic, and designed with ingredient minimalism (10 or fewer per product). Do you use artificial dyes or synthetic fragrance? Our washes are dye-free and scented with 100% natural fragrance (ISO 9235). Bath bombs use naturally derived colorants. My child has specific skin conditions. What should I do? Our washes are hypoallergenic, pH-balanced, and safe for sensitive skin, but always consult your dermatologist for eczema or specific skin concerns. Safety & Ingredient Standards Dabble & Dollop products are dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic, and crafted to be gentle on purpose. We keep formulas simple and say a firm “no” to: Sulfates, parabens, phthalates, silicones Polysorbates and formaldehyde donors Petroleum-based dyes (our washes are dye-free) We’re proud of what we leave out—and what we put in: playful scents, clean ingredients, and kid-friendly routines that make consistency easy. Back to top ↑  

From newborn essentials to fizzy stocking stuffers, our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide makes it easy to find gifts that are clean, colorful, and fun for the whole family. Every Dabble & Dollop product is made with gentle, dermatologist-tested ingredients and designed to make bath time brighter. Jump to: 🌈 Rainbow of Bubbles 👶 Infant Bundle 🫧 Sweet Treat Mini Bath Bombs 🍒 Cherry on Top Detangling Duo ✨ Just a Dabble Minis Set 🎅 Totally Tubular Fizzfest 🧴 Mix-and-Match Lotions 🌎 Eco Refill Pouches💌 Digital Gift Card For the Bath Time Fanatic: Rainbow of Bubbles Our best-selling Rainbow of Bubbles bundle is a must-have for creative kids. Seven 3-in-1 scents (bubble bath, body wash & shampoo) inspire endless mixing and matching for sweet, sensory play that’s as gentle as it is fun. For Newborns & New Parents: Infant Bundle The Infant Wash & Lotion are both EWG Verified and perfect for baby’s first baths and bedtime snuggles. Gentle, tear-free, and dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin. For Self-Care Seekers: Mini Bath Bombs From tropical to soothing spa scents, our Mini Drops Bath Bombs are the perfect self-care gifts that both kids and parents will love. Perfect for teachers, friends, or anyone who enjoys a fizzy soak. For Wild Sleepers Who Wake Up With Tangles: Cherry on Top Detangling Duo The Detangling Duo pairs our juicy Cherry on Top Detangler with its matching Conditioner. Smooths knots, adds shine, and smells as sweet as it works—bye, tangles! For Near & Far Travelers: Just a Dabble Minis Set Six travel-size 3-in-1s in mix-and-match scents make our Just a Dabble Minis Set the perfect intro to clean fun—or the cutest stocking stuffer. For 90s Nostalgia Lovers: Totally Tubular Hot Chocolate Soak Go retro and cozy at the same time with the Totally Tubular Hot Chocolate Soak. 90s-inspired colors, fizz, and fun—because bath time should always feel like a throwback treat. For the Smoothest Stocking Stuffer: Mix-and-Match Lotions Our Lotions are rich, lightweight, and mixable in your favorite scents—Vanilla, Strawberry and Coconut. The perfect stocking stuffer for smooth, hydrated winter skin all season long. For the Eco-Conscious Friend: Refill Pouches Bigger bottles, less waste. Our Refill Pouches deliver sustainability and savings—perfect for families who love to keep the bubbles going. For the Pickiest Mixers: Dabble & Dollop Gift Card Let them pick their own scents and favorites with a Dabble & Dollop Digital Gift Card. The easiest, cleanest gift of all! Why Dabble & Dollop Gifts Are Holiday Must-Haves Clean & gentle — dermatologist-tested and safe for sensitive skin Mix, match & play — endless scent combinations spark creativity Family-run & made in the USA Loved by parents & kids — thousands of 5-star reviews!   Holiday Shipping Deadline: Order by December 15 for delivery by Christmas. After that date, choose expedited shipping at checkout. Shop the Entire Holiday Collection

Grab your scrunchies and glitter gel—Dabble & Dollop is throwing it way back for the holidays. Our limited-edition Totally Tub-ular Tidings Holiday Collection brings 90s nostalgia straight to the bathtub with colorful packaging, playful scents, and clean, dermatologist-tested formulas that are gentle on sensitive skin. Parents get peace of mind. Kids get magical, fizz-tastic fun. Booyah! Why a 90s Holiday Theme? The 90s were all about color, creativity, and confidence—just like our approach to bath time. From neon-bright designs to mix-and-match scents, Totally Tub-ular Tidings celebrates self-expression while keeping things safe, simple, and seriously fun. Meet the Totally Tub-ular Tidings Lineup   12 Days of Mini Drops Holiday Countdown Calendar Make every night of the season a mini celebration with 12 kid-sized, naturally scented bath bombs (think: Strawberry, Peach, Mango, Coconut, Kiwi & Lavender). Each day reveals a new fizzy surprise for moisturizing, scentsational soaking. Shop the 12 Day Countdown Calendar   Hot Chocolate Soak Your favorite holiday drink—reimagined for the tub. Four All Natural Cocoa bath bombs deliver cozy, chocolatey fizz while our Vanilla Whip 3-in-1 works as bubble bath, shampoo, and body wash. Warm, sweet, and totally tub-ular. Shop Hot Chocolate Soak   Custom Bubble Bath Set Pick any three full-size 3-in-1s for a trio of bubble bath, body wash, and shampoo in one. Kids can mix and match scents to create custom blends while parents love the clean, tear-free formulas. It’s all that (and a bag of chips!). Shop the Bubble Bath Set     Merry Fizzfest Mini Drops Stocking Stuffer Small bath bombs, big holiday energy. This trio of mini bath bombs is the perfect stocking stuffer—fizzy, festive, and gentle for sensitive skin. Wrap it, gift it, and watch the tub-time joy unfold. Shop Merry Fizzfest Stocking Stuffer Clean, Gentle & Kid-Friendly (Because Parents Deserve Peace of Mind) Dermatologist-tested and safe for sensitive skin Naturally derived, vegan formulas with no more than ten high-quality ingredients No parabens, phthalates, or harsh sulfates Tear-free washes designed for happy, stress-free bath time Made in the USA with playful packaging kids love Want the full ingredient story? Explore our Ingredients and discover how we keep bath time clean, safe, and totally rad. Holiday Gifting That’s All That From stocking stuffers to family gift bundles, these limited-edition sets are built for joyful unboxing and long-lasting memories. Start a new countdown tradition, cozy up with cocoa-scented soaks, or make every bath a bubbly celebration. FAQs: Holiday Collection & Shipping Are these bath products safe for sensitive skin? Yes. Our formulas are naturally derived, dermatologist-tested, and made to be gentle for kids and families. Can I mix scents? Totally! Especially with our 3-in-1s—combine a dabble of this with a dollop of that to create custom, kid-approved blends. Will these arrive in time for the holidays? Check our latest Holiday Shipping Info for cutoff dates and carrier updates.  Shop Totally Tub-ular Tidings

Tangled hair — we’ve all been there. From post-shower bed-head to messy knots after a windy day, tangles slow your routine and stress your strands. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our brand new Cherry on Top Leave-In Spray Detangler, a lightweight mist formulated to effortlessly smooth, soften, and release tangles — all while being kind to your hair and scalp. Why the Right Detangling Spray Matters When you’re looking for a true detangler spray (not just another leave-in), two things matter most: slip (ease of combing) and gentle, effective ingredients. Many detanglers rely on heavy silicones or irritants that can build up on hair or bother sensitive scalps. Our formula focuses on clean-beauty performance: detangle efficiently, nourish effectively, and reduce stress on both hair and routine. Key Ingredients & Benefits Jackfruit Extract – Known for its hydrating properties, helps to combat dryness and frizz. Hydrolyzed Lemon Protein – By forming a weightless film on hair shaft, it reflects light and creates noticeable shine. Pisum Sativum Pea Peptide – Rich in essential amino acids that help give hair strands their structure and strength, making them less prone to breakage. Fresh, Kid-Friendly Scent – Our bestselling All Natural Cherry scent that makes detangling feel like a treat, not a chore. No Harsh Additives – Formulated without heavy silicones or questionable preservatives to help minimize buildup and irritation. How to Use It for Best Results After washing (or on dry hair as needed), hold the bottle 8–10 inches from hair. Lightly mist mid-lengths and ends; avoid over-spraying roots. Use a comb or brush, starting at the ends and working up toward roots. Style as usual for a soft, glossy, knot-free finish. Pro tip: For extra-tangled hair, lightly mist your brush first and work in small sections to minimize friction and breakage. Who It’s For All hair types (fine to coarse, straight to curly) Kids and adults — thanks to our gentle, scalp-friendly formula Anyone who detangles frequently and wants fast results without buildup Daily use as a leave-in mist that also detangles Why You’ll Love It Faster detangling: Brush through knots instead of wrestling them. Less breakage: Reduced tugging means healthier hair over time. Softer, smoother finish: Emollients and humectants boost smoothness, texture, and shine. Scalp-friendly: Lightweight feel, made without harsh additives. FAQs Can I use it on wet and dry hair? Yes. On damp hair it helps resolve fresh tangles; on dry hair it works as a refreshing detangling mist for midday knots. Is it safe for children or sensitive scalps? Absolutely. Our gentle, low-irritant formula is designed to be kid-friendly and scalp-friendly. How often should I use it? As often as you like. Use after each wash or whenever tangles appear — the lightweight formula won’t weigh hair down. Shop the Spray Detangler  Tip: Pair with our gentle 3-in-1s and conditioner for a complete bath-to-brush routine.

Protecting Kids’ Skin Microbiomes: What Parents Should Know Author: Dabble & Dollop • Last updated: September 30, 2025 Key takeaways The skin microbiome—billions of microbes living on the skin surface—supports the skin barrier and overall skin health.[1][8] Children’s skin performs best near a slightly acidic pH (~4.5–5.5); repeated use of alkaline soaps (often pH 9–10) can impair barrier function and disturb microbial balance.[1][2][3] Eczema (atopic dermatitis) affects roughly 10–20% of children globally, and U.S. prevalence has risen over recent decades.[4][5][6] “Microbiome-friendly” usually means no meaningful disruption to microbial diversity in standardized tests; there is no single “perfect” microbiome profile defined yet.[7][8] Pediatric guidance favors simple routines: a gentle, low-pH cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen; avoid unnecessary adult-strength actives for kids unless advised by a clinician.[9][10] Definitions Skin microbiome: the community of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes that live on skin and help defend against pathogens and inflammation.[8] Skin barrier: the outer layers of skin (including the stratum corneum) plus chemical/immune/microbial defenses that keep water in and irritants out; it works best at a slightly acidic pH.[1][2] Dysbiosis: disrupted microbial balance/diversity associated with barrier dysfunction and conditions like eczema.[8] pH: acidity/alkalinity scale. Skin is naturally acidic (~4–6); many traditional “true soaps” are alkaline (often pH 9–10).[3] Why the microbiome matters for kids When the skin barrier is dry or compromised, tiny fissures make it easier for irritants and microbes to aggravate skin, contributing to blemishes and eczema-like conditions. Evidence shows that maintaining an acidic skin pH supports barrier integrity and resident flora, whereas alkaline routines weaken both over time.[1][2] There’s also cultural pressure for kids to try adult products (e.g., strong exfoliants/retinoids). Pediatric and dermatology sources caution that these are unnecessary and potentially irritating for developing skin; a simple, gentle routine is preferred.[9][10] Interpreting “microbiome-friendly” claims Third-party programs (e.g., standards focused on infant skin) typically assess whether a formula does not reduce microbial diversity or hinder growth under test conditions.[7] This is useful for demonstrating “no disruption”, but the science has not defined a single ideal microbiome for every child. Reviews emphasize inter-individual variability and the need for standardized methods.[8] What actually helps children’s skin Use pH-balanced (≈5–5.5), gentle cleansers. Skin thrives in a slightly acidic environment; repeated alkaline exposure impairs barrier homeostasis and increases susceptibility to irritants such as SLS.[2][11] Moisturize daily with barrier-supporting lotions/creams. Avoid routine adult-strength actives (e.g., high-strength acids, retinoids) unless directed by a clinician.[9][10] Understand medications’ tradeoffs: topical antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide can alter microbial communities (sometimes necessary and appropriate for specific conditions).[17][18] Where eczema fits in Eczema burdens many families: estimates suggest ~10–20% of children are affected globally, and U.S. prevalence increased from ~8% (1997) to ~13% (2018).[4][5][6] For eczema-prone children, simpler, pH-smart routines can reduce irritation triggers. In some contexts, even water-only washing has performed no worse than cleanser during remission (seasonal/specific settings).[21] Our point of view To us, “microbiome-friendly” should at minimum indicate gentleness, acidic pH near skin’s natural level, and no material disruption in standardized tests. Until a universal clinical target exists, we will continue following peer-reviewed science and evolving with credible evidence. References Lambers H. Natural skin surface pH is on average below 5… Int J Cosmet Sci (2006). link ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ Kim E. The alkaline pH-adapted skin barrier is disrupted… Exp Dermatol (2009). link ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ Tarun J. Evaluation of pH of Bathing Soaps and Shampoos… Indian J Dermatol (2014). link ↩ ↩ National Eczema Association. Eczema Facts. link ↩ ↩ Choragudi S, Yosipovitch G. Trends in Eczema Among U.S. Children, 1997–2018. JAMA Dermatology (2023). link ↩ ↩ Langan SM, et al. Global trends in eczema prevalence. Clin Exp Allergy (2023). link ↩ ↩ MyMicrobiome—Infant Skin Standard 20.10 (certification overview). link ↩ ↩ Ruuskanen MO, et al. Towards standardized, reproducible skin-microbiome research (review). (2022). link ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ AAP HealthyChildren.org. Trendy Skin Care for Tweens & Teens—Is It Safe? (2025). link ↩ ↩ ↩ UCLA Health. Kids into skincare—dermatologists’ advice (2024). link ↩ ↩ ↩ Telofski LS, et al. The Infant Skin Barrier (detergents/irritancy context). (2012). link ↩ SanMiguel AJ, et al. Topical antimicrobials shift cutaneous communities. (2017). link ↩ Zhou L, et al. Influence of benzoyl peroxide on skin microbiota. (2022). link ↩ Katoh Y, et al. Skin care by washing with water is not inferior… (children with AD in remission; seasonal). (2024). link ↩