Learn if paw paw balm is safe for babies' delicate skin. Evidence-based tips on patch testing, ingredients to avoid, and natural skincare alternatives.
As a pharmacist, I'm often asked if paw paw balm is appropriate for newborns and toddlers with delicate or eczema-prone skin. Parents read labels carefully, worry about reactions, and want something gentle and natural
When formulated properly and patch tested first, organic paw paw balm can be a gentle, supportive addition to a baby's skincare routine.
What Is Paw Paw, and What Does It Do?
Paw paw, Carica papaya, is a tropical fruit rich in natural enzymes, vitamins, and protective compounds. Unlike petroleum-based balms that sit on top of the skin, paw paw contains active ingredients that work gently to support and nourish delicate skin.
The key enzyme is papain, which supports the skin's natural renewal without harsh scrubbing. Paw paw itself naturally contains vitamins A, C, E, and B complex important for healthy skin function. When fermented, papaya becomes more potent as fermentation concentrates these beneficial compounds. Natralus uses fermented papaya extract at 83 mg per gram, nearly double competitor concentrations, to provide gentle yet effective support for young skin.
This approach reflects our heritage: a respected Adelaide pharmacist in the 1920s who created natural remedies by balancing science with nature.
Is It Suitable for Babies' Delicate Skin?
Yes, when the formula is designed for babies and introduced carefully.
A baby's skin barrier is still developing. It loses water more easily and is more vulnerable to irritants than adult skin. Paw paw balms formulated for babies have low irritation potential and can help maintain skin comfort and softness. Papaya-derived ingredients have been assessed as safe and non-irritating in cosmetic use at appropriate levels.
One important note: papain is a proteolytic enzyme, and very rarely, enzymes can act as allergens for highly sensitive individuals. This is why patch testing is important, especially for babies with family histories of allergies or very reactive skin.
For eczema-prone babies, paw paw can help maintain comfort and hydration. It works best alongside medical advice if eczema is diagnosed or severe.
What Should Parents Look For in a Paw Paw Balm?
Not all paw paw products are equal. When choosing a balm for a baby:
High Paw Paw Content – Paw paw should be high on the ingredient list with a stated concentration. Look for fermented papaya extract, as fermentation makes the beneficial compounds more powerful and easier for your baby's skin to absorb.
No Harsh Additives – Avoid petroleum jelly, parabens, synthetic fragrances, artificial colours, or sulphates. These irritate sensitive or young skin.
Supportive Natural Ingredients – Shea butter provides rich, non-comedogenic moisturising. Calendula helps calm the skin. Vitamin E supports the skin barrier and provides antioxidant protection.
Quality and Certification – Look for GMP and ISO9001 certification for pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing, organic certification for pesticide-free papaya, and cruelty-free verification.
How Does Paw Paw Help Babies' Skin?
A well-formulated paw paw balm supports the skin's natural moisture levels, especially when applied to slightly damp skin after a bath. It provides antioxidant support through naturally occurring vitamins, protecting the skin from environmental stress. The papain enzyme gently lifts dry, flaky cells without scrubbing.
Combined with emollients like shea butter and plant oils, paw paw helps keep skin soft and supple in dry or windy weather. Parents appreciate having a single tube that works for their own lips and hands as well as baby's skin.
Safety Tips for Parents
Patch Test First – Apply a small amount behind the ear or on the inner forearm for 24–48 hours. Watch for redness, itching, or discomfort. If a reaction occurs, stop and consult a healthcare professional.
Start Small – After patch testing, use a thin layer on a limited area. Observe for several days before daily use.
Less Is More – A pea-sized amount is enough for a baby's face or larger body area.
Apply to Damp Skin – Use after a bath when skin is slightly damp to support moisture and improve comfort.
Stop if Problems Develop – If a rash worsens or spreads, stop immediately and consult your pharmacist or paediatrician.
How Paw Paw Compares to Other Baby Moisturisers
| Feature | Paw Paw Balm | Shea Butter | Coconut Oil | Petroleum Jelly |
| Absorbs into skin | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Active nourishing ingredients | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Anti-inflammatory | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Non-comedogenic | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Contains Vitamins C | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Gentle enzymatic skin renewal | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Shea butter is an excellent basic moisturiser and suits many babies well, especially in dry climates. Coconut oil is lightweight and familiar but can clog pores and trigger sensitivities. Petroleum jelly is occlusive and widely used but inert—providing occlusion without active nourishment.
A well-formulated paw paw balm takes a different approach. Unlike shea butter, it combines moisture support with Vitamin C for barrier recovery and papain enzyme for gentle skin renewal.
Many families choose paw paw because it handles different skin needs in one product, making their skincare routine simpler.
The Bottom Line
Paw paw can be a suitable choice for babies' delicate skin when parents select a gentle formula, introduce it gradually, and monitor their child's response. The focus should be on comfort, softness, and simple, supportive care.
Natralus' My Little One range is formulated with fermented organic paw paw (83 mg/g), shea butter, calendula, and naturally derived ingredients. It's produced under GMP and ISO9001 standards, is 100% cruelty-free, and was developed with three generations of pharmaceutical expertise.
Because your baby's skin is new and sensitive, it deserves care rooted in both nature and science. Paw paw offers a gentle, practical option for everyday skin comfort.
Ready to give your little one the natural skincare they deserve? Explore the Natralus My Little One range today and see why families nationwide trust us for their babies' delicate skin.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only. Please consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for personalised advice, especially if your baby has eczema, allergies, or ongoing skin concerns, before introducing any new skincare product.
References
Park S, Sun K, Kim Y, et al. The Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Function Recovery Effects of Carica papaya Peel in Mice with Contact Dermatitis. Int J Mol Sci. 2025;26(22):11122. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12653787/
Santana LF, Inada AC, Espirito Santo BLS, et al. Nutraceutical Potential of Carica papaya in Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients. 2019;11(7):1608. doi: 10.3390/nu11071608. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6682863/
Kamijo S, Suzuki M, Hara M, et al. Subcutaneous Allergic Sensitization to Protease Allergen Is Dependent on Mast Cells but Not IL-33: Distinct Mechanisms between Subcutaneous and Intranasal Routes. J Immunol. 2016;196(9):3559-3569. doi: 10.4049/jimmunol.1500717. https://academic.oup.com/jimmunol/article-abstract/196/9/3559/7974413
Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. Safety Assessment of Carica papaya (Papaya)-Derived Ingredients. 2021. https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/papaya032021FR.pdf
