Camphor

Camphor molecular structurePubChem

0-6 month old newborns • Skin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this safe for 0-6 month old newborns to use Camphor?

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NO - AVOID
Danger Score: 10 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Camphor avoid - not safe for 0-6 month old babies when used in topical products. Always consult your pediatrician for newborns.

ℹ️General Overview

Camphor is not safe for infants (newborns and babies up to 6 months). Babies absorb more through their skin and camphor can cause serious breathing or nervous system problems.

✅What to Do

Do not use any products that list camphor on babies under 6 months. If you need relief for congestion or a cough, ask your pediatrician for baby-safe options. Store camphor-containing items out of reach and in a closed cabinet.

⚠️Warnings

Do not apply balms, ointments, or oils that contain camphor to an infant's chest, face, or any broken skin. Regulatory bodies note camphor is a known human allergen and is restricted in some cosmetic uses (EU Cosmetics Directive; Health Canada). If a baby is exposed and becomes unusually sleepy, has trouble breathing, has shaking or seizures, or you suspect they swallowed some, get emergency medical help right away.

Confidence: HIGH

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Immune system: Camphor is listed by the EU cosmetics rules as a known human allergen. That means it can trigger allergic reactions in some people, which can affect a child’s immune response to the skin exposure.
Irritant: Because camphor is identified as a human allergen, it can cause skin redness, itching, or rashes when applied to sensitive skin or to children who react to it.
Eczema: Known allergy risk from camphor can provoke or worsen eczema and contact dermatitis in children who are sensitive to it, per the EU cosmetics classification.
Banned: Health Canada restricts the use or concentration of camphor in cosmetics, so its use is limited or controlled in some countries.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Camphor

This ingredient may also be listed as:

camphorHY-N0808Q-200784DL-2-BORNANONE 1,7,7-TRIMETHYLBICYCLO[2.2.1]HEPTAN-2-ONEZ940713494W-109539W-110530Q181559F0001-0763(1RS,4RS)-1,7,7-TRIMETHYLBICYCLO(2.2.1)HEPTAN-2-ONE(+/-)-1,7,7-TRIMETHYL-BICYCLO[2,2,1]HEPTANE-2-ONE

Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.

Products Containing Camphor

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain Camphor or its alternative names.

Research Articles on Camphor

Scientific research related to this ingredient:

Ethyl cellulose-based in-situ film of itraconazole for enhanced treatment of fungal infections.

PMID: 40253000PubMed ↗

There's the Rub: a narrative review of the benefits and complications associated with Vicks VapoRub use.

PMID: 40034673PubMed ↗

These research articles provide scientific evidence about Camphor safety and effects.

Common Questions About Camphor

Is this ingredient safe for newborns to use Camphor?

Camphor is not recommended for 0-6 month old babies due to potential safety risks.

What are the immune system risks of Camphor for newborns?

Could weaken or confuse immune system. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the irritant risks of Camphor for newborns?

Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the eczema risks of Camphor for newborns?

Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the banned risks of Camphor 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 products contain Camphor?

Camphor is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.

When can infants start using products with Camphor?

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.

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