Check for Different Age (6 available)
Is this safe for 0-6 month old newborns to use Benzethonium Chloride?
ℹ️General Overview
For newborns and infants (0–6 months) this ingredient is best avoided when possible. It’s an antiseptic that is allowed in some products but there are warnings and limits from health authorities and some animal and lab studies that suggest caution is needed for very young babies.
✅What to Do
Do not use products that list benzethonium chloride on healthy baby skin unless your pediatrician tells you to. If a doctor prescribes a product with it, follow their instructions exactly and use only the product and dose recommended. Check product labels for alternate safer options (look for products labeled safe for newborns/infants). If you need an antiseptic for a small cut or wound, ask your child’s doctor for a baby-specific recommendation.
⚠️Warnings
Avoid products with benzethonium chloride on infants’ skin, especially on broken skin, near eyes, mouth or diaper area. Health Canada and cosmetic safety reviewers place limits or restrictions on its use in some countries — that is a reason to be cautious. Animal studies have shown effects on fertility at higher exposures, and lab studies showed possible effects on nerve cells; there is also some evidence of allergic reactions. If you see any redness, swelling, rash, breathing trouble, or unusual behavior after using a product, stop use and contact your pediatrician or emergency services. (Sources: Health Canada; Cosmetic Ingredient Review; published animal and laboratory studies.)
Are you holding the product?
Scan the full ingredient label and understand if it's safe for your child.
Safety Risk Labels
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.
Alternative Names for Benzethonium Chloride
This ingredient may also be listed as:
Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.
Products Containing Benzethonium Chloride
This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Benzethonium Chloride or its alternative names.
Research Articles on Benzethonium Chloride
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Benzethonium Chloride safety and effects.
Common Questions About Benzethonium Chloride
Is this ingredient safe for newborns to use Benzethonium Chloride?
Benzethonium Chloride is not recommended for 0-6 month old babies due to potential safety risks.
What are the banned risks of Benzethonium Chloride for newborns?
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What are the fertility risks of Benzethonium Chloride for newborns?
Some studies link this to future fertility or reproductive issues. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What are the hormones risks of Benzethonium Chloride for newborns?
May mess with natural hormone development in babies and children. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What are the immune system risks of Benzethonium Chloride for newborns?
Could weaken or confuse immune system. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What are the asthma risks of Benzethonium Chloride for newborns?
Can make breathing issues like asthma worse in babies and kids. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What are the organ risk risks of Benzethonium Chloride for newborns?
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What products contain Benzethonium Chloride?
Benzethonium Chloride is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
When can infants start using products with Benzethonium Chloride?
The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for 0-6 month old babies. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
Want to scan another product?
Use our camera scanner to analyze more ingredient labels
Scan Another Product