Which Perfume to Choose for a Baby or Child? Safety, Scented Water, and Alcohol-Free Guide
When we think of the word “fragrance,” we often imagine perfumes for men or women. Associating it with children or babies might seem surprising. Yet, there are specially designed scented waters for young ones, perfect for gently awakening their sense of smell.
Scented Water (Eau de Senteur): Safety, Composition, and Strict Regulation
Scented water (eau de senteur) is an alcohol-free fragrance, perfectly suited to a baby’s delicate skin. It uses a non-alcoholic solvent to dilute the perfume concentrate, which can give it a slightly cosmetic texture—sometimes even a bit “sticky.”
The History of First Baby Perfumes
The first baby perfume was Baby Dior, launched in 1970. Brands like L’Eau de Bonpoint and Ptisenbon by Tartine et Chocolat (Givenchy, 1987) later became cult favorites globally. Other brands followed, including Baby Guerlain.
Strict Safety Standards for Infant Fragrances
Regulations have tightened considerably in recent years, making infant fragrances highly regulated:
- Alcohol Prohibition: Scented water is strictly alcohol-free.
- Natural Ingredient Restrictions: Contrary to popular belief, many natural ingredients are often prohibited—especially citrus notes (hesperidic)—as they pose allergy or photosensitivity risks.
- The Olfactory Challenge: The challenge for perfumers is to create a sense of naturalness using safe, synthetic, non-allergenic materials. Since a baby’s skin is very thin, each ingredient must be rigorously selected and tested.
Which Scents Suit Babies and Children?
Fragrances for young children often evoke the natural smell of a baby: fresh, soft, musky (white musks), with citrus-like effects (but no real citrus) and abstract florals. They should be clean and reassuring.
Tips for Choosing and Applying Baby Perfume
Before buying a baby perfume, always check the composition:
- Composition Check: Use apps like Yuka to verify composition. Look for labels such as “hypoallergenic,” “phthalate-free,” and “paraben-free.”
- Application: Never spray perfume directly onto a baby’s skin (see our guide on testing perfume). Apply it to clothing instead, and only after the age of 3.
Classic Perfumes by Age Group
Classic Scents for Little Ones (0-3 years)
- Eau de Senteur – Bonpoint
- Ptisenbon – Givenchy
- Baby Touch – Burberry
- Baby – Guerlain
- Kaloo fragrances
- Jacadi fragrances
Fragrances for Older Children (7+ years)
From age 7 or 8, children may want a more personal scent, with light and fresh fruity notes (see guide on notes).
- Little Woman by IKKS
- Young Man by IKKS
- Jeune Homme by Jacadi
- Mademoiselle by Jacadi
