We spend a while looking at face creams for ourselves but how long do you take to choose a cream for your child? And just how many options are there out there.

We tend to worry about selecting something for babies – in fact newborns shouldn’t really have anything put on their skin, even if they get baby acne. But for older babies, we would naturally opt for a cream which is natural and as simple as possible in terms of ingredients. In fact, these labels are easier to read and decipher than the more manufactured products. Plus the list of components is more recognisable and often has what it actually is, or derived from in brackets.

So which of the creams out there are the best for your little one – here are a few tried and tested ones which I like.

First of all Nom Nom which is both a pregnancy and baby brand has a rich ‘Baby Butter‘. This is certified organic by The Soil Association and is primarily made from Jojoba – which is intensely hydrating and gives it the richness; calendula with antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and even antiseptic properties. Blended with Evening Primrose oil, it contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and omega 6 fatty acid, which has healing benefits which can also help eczema. Not surprising since studies have shown it to help with elasticity, moisture and firmness. Other ingredients are coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, sunflower and shea butter.

Then there is the Burts Bees Nourishing Oil which I have used sparingly on the cheeks when they feel dry which is formulated with sunflower, rapeseed, wheatgerm, grape seed and apricot oils which are all natural and nourishing. This is certified cruelty free as well as being responsibly sourced.

The Neil’s Yard Baby Oil is also something which I have been testing on the boys. Again this is made with sunflower oil but blended with jojoba oil and includes borage which is a skin conditioning agent.

Another one I like is the Badger Baby Balm – this is again another blend of oils but in a vaseline style format – so much so I was surprised it didn’t contain the petroleum jelly vaseline does. It is in fact made from extra virgin olive oil, castor oil together with beeswax, calendula and roman camomile. So it must be the beeswax giving that texture and the oils which nourish with camomile and calendula soothing. It definitely helped clear up a nappy rash. But I think I prefer creams for the face.

The Organic People Soothing Baby Salve (Lavender) is what I am trying to use when I remember and have the product to hand. (I have to keep hiding this from the children who play with the products). Again this has Shea Butter (deeply nourishing) & Calendula (soothing & moisturising) but with the addition this time of Hemp (restorative, an emollient and moisturising) & Lavender oil (calming & anti-inflammatory). This is also suitable for eczema and sensitive skin plus it is certified organic, vegetarian and cruelty-free. I think this was my favourite for the face so far and seemed to help the best. So I am trying to continue using this one.

Let me know if there’s anything else you’ve tried that’s natural and really great for children’s cheeks.