For newborns and babies up to 6 months, chlorphenesin is something to avoid when you can. It is a preservative that has been linked to allergic skin reactions and some irritation in people, and some countries limit or prohibit its use in certain products.
Avoid products containing chlorphenesin for infants 0–6 months if possible. If your baby’s doctor recommends a product that contains it, use only a tiny amount on a small, non-sensitive area and do a patch test for 24–48 hours before wider use. Don’t apply it to the face, near the eyes or mouth, or on broken or sore skin. If you see redness, a rash, swelling, blisters, or any breathing change, stop using the product and contact your baby’s doctor right away.
Watch for signs of an allergic or irritation reaction (redness, rash, swelling, blisters, or breathing difficulty). These concerns are reported by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review and the European Chemicals Agency. Also be aware that Japan’s Ministry of Health has put limits or prohibitions on some uses or concentrations of chlorphenesin, and Environment Canada and other literature note mixed findings on persistence or toxicity. If a product marketed for infants contains chlorphenesin, consider asking your pediatrician for safer alternatives.
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This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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This ingredient may also be listed as:
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This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Chlorphenesin or its alternative names.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Chlorphenesin safety and effects.
Chlorphenesin is not recommended for 0-6 month old babies due to potential safety risks.
Could weaken or confuse immune system. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
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.
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Builds up in the body over time with repeated use. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Possible negative effects on the environment This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Can make breathing issues like asthma worse in babies and kids. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Chlorphenesin is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
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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