Skin-to-skin: Mama and baby bonding.

Baby skin is incredibly delicate and as a new mother, I’ve made it a priority to seek out skincare brands that are nourishing and beneficial for baby and myself. If you think about it, skin-to-skin contact is one of most powerful ways of bonding with your tiny human. In light of this, I was concerned about the transfer of not-so-friendly ingredients and its absorption by my little one. Thankfully, the following all-natural and plant-based brands are formulated to lovingly care for babes and mamas. These are the top picks:

The Baby Bum line is a plant-based collection that is formulated for gentle and sensitive skin. No ... [+] synthetic fragrances, sulfates, parabens or phthalates are used in their products.

Baby Bum: I’ve always found that the gloopy texture and pungent scent of sunscreen to be very off-putting. Fortunately, this isn’t the case with Sun Bum and Baby Bum products - they smell like a tropical vacation and are gentle enough for my infant. A favorite with my little one is their SPF 50 sunscreen lotion. As a mom, I have peace of mind because their formulas are made of safe minerals to protect babies' skin from harsh UVA/UVB rays. Most importantly, it is lightweight, non-greasy, and gets absorbed quickly (such an important feature, especially for impatient tiny humans who just want to venture off and explore the world). Another recommended must-have is their handy travel kit which includes travel-sized (and TSA approved) SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm, and Cool Down Aloe Lotion.

How moms can use it: the brand’s multi-purpose Coconut Balm is fantastic for babies with sensitive skin but also is great for my belly/stretch marks (during pregnancy and in postpartum). Also, it smells like a piña colada - which is undoubtedly a double win.

EllaOla, is a next generation skin care brand developed with Harvard Dermatologists and ... [+] Pediatricians

EllaOla: This skincare company was developed by Harvard Pediatricians; and moreover, the brand's science-first approach led them to partner with leading experts in the fields of dermatology and pediatrics. Formulas are gentle and nourishing for babies - with their core collection including their tear-free shampoo & body wash, hydrating body lotion, and fragrance-free massage oil. But by far the standout is their diaper rash cream: with 14% naturally derived zinc oxide, the formula offers a protective layer on baby bums, eliminates rashes, and doesn’t leave that chalky white film when applied. Formulated with plant-based ingredients, all products are designed to soothe and comfort littles without use of synthetics, dyes, and other harmful ingredients.

How moms can use it: for their massage oil, I’ve used it on dry patches of skin (due to hormonal changes) as well as for my tired soles - the essential omega fatty acids really helps pamper and infuse my skin with moisture.

Soothing and Nurturing Gua Sha Set includes Soothing Serum, Nurturing Oil, Heart Shaped Rose Quartz ... [+] Stone & Printed Guide.

BEB Organics: A brand whose emphasis is the Gua Sha Method (using a tool, such as quartz stone- to massage the skin and increase its blood flow) to aid in prenatal, postnatal, and baby care. Since skin-to-skin contact is so integral between parent and baby, the holistically inclined brand is all about facilitating tactile and mindful connections - all while improve the quality of the skin. Founder Kim Walls, an educator and pioneer in the skincare industry, explains that using their products in tandem with the intent of bonding is an incredibly powerful and healing experience: “Our method honors the skin as our largest organ, and enhances its sensory powers to facilitate the health and healing that makes us feel balanced, connected, and calm.” All ingredients are safe for use on littles, even for premature infants. Favorite products include this Nurturing Gua Sha Set and Rising Star Set (a perfect combination for bath time fun and after-soak soothing).

How moms can use it: the Nurturing Oil is beneficial for use in pre and postnatal care. Gently massage into the skin using circular motions to aid in the healing of engorged breasts, aches, pains, stretch marks, reliving itchy/dry scalps and more.

Kambiio is a BIPOC-founded skincare brand created with intention and powered by luxurious African ... [+] botanicals. Only the finest, precious, and functional ingredients with valuable bioactive compounds are used for their oil-based serums.

Kambiio: This is a luxurious skincare brand powered by African botanicals. With a background in Pharmaceutical Science and Drug Quality Assurance, founder Maryann Okoro explains that only the finest ingredients are used for their oil-based serums. “We are committed to delivering essential and effective products for optimal skin vitality. Our radiance and refining serums are suitable for all skin types; while offering specific transformation for tired complexions.” More importantly, her creations are also safe to use on babies. Her plant-powered collection ensures that delicate baby skin is cared for (note: you can simply add a few drops of their serum to a neutral organic oil such as coconut - and gently massage into baby’s skin after their bath or before bedtime). The Dreamer Refining Oil Serum is a must-have for sensitive and stressed skin. Composed of ingredients such as Baobab, Kalahari, and Evening Primrose - all help refine and even out the skin’s tone and texture.

How moms can use it: A potent and enriched oil that’s ideal for use on the face, neck, and décolleté, as needed.

Organic Mama & Baby Oil by Mojave Desert Skin Shield

Mojave Desert Skin Shield: With the intention of offering purifying, nourishing and protective skin care, their quality organic and wildcrafted ingredients honor the holistic and healing power of Ancient Medicine - and is grounded in thoughtful research and scientific know-how. A testament to the strength of this philosophy is the company’s Organic Mama & Baby Oil. With soothing herbs and oils, this earthy blend of carrot seed oil, rose flower oil, sweet almond oil, and precious camellia seed oil help’s baby skin feel happy and hydrated, especially with issues such as diaper rash and cradle cap.

How mom can use it: after a shower, use on the face, neck, and décolleté. Also, before bedtime, it’s ideal for use on stiff/tired legs and rough/cracked heels.