For newborns and babies 0–6 months, glyceryl laurate is used in some lotions and creams and is not linked to cancer or long-term harm. But it can irritate skin and eyes and may help other ingredients get deeper into delicate baby skin, so we are more cautious with very young babies.
If you use a product that lists glyceryl laurate: choose products specifically made and tested for infants; prefer rinse-off products (bath products) over leave-on creams when the ingredient concentration is unknown; do a small patch test on the baby’s inner arm and wait 24 hours before regular use; avoid applying to broken, red or very thin skin; keep products away from the baby’s eyes and mouth; stop use and check with your pediatrician if you see redness, swelling, blistering, or increased fussiness after application.
The main concerns come from industry safety reviews that report: 1) it can irritate skin and eyes, and 2) it can act as a penetration enhancer (Cosmetic Ingredient Review). There are also recommendations to limit how it’s used or how concentrated it is in products (Cosmetic Ingredient Review). Environmental reviews say it is not expected to persist or build up in the body (Environment Canada). Watch for irritation signs after use and avoid products that do not state they are formulated for infants or that contain multiple strong actives. If irritation appears, stop using the product and consult your child’s healthcare provider.
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Use caution with Glyceryl Laurate for 0-6 month old babies. Some safety concerns have been identified.
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.
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. 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.
Glyceryl Laurate 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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