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Is this safe for 0-6 month old newborns to use Glycolic Acid?
ℹ️General Overview
For newborns and babies under 6 months, glycolic acid is not a good choice. It can irritate delicate skin and makes the skin absorb more of other substances. Baby skin is thin and more likely to react, so we recommend avoiding it in this age group.
✅What to Do
Don't use products that list glycolic acid on babies under 6 months. If a caregiver finds it in a product, stop using it on the baby. For any accidental application, wash the area gently with plain water and watch the skin. If the baby has redness, stinging, blisters, or eye contact, rinse and call your pediatrician or poison control. For older children, only use products made for them, at low concentration, for short contact times, and avoid leaving them on the skin or sun exposure after use.
⚠️Warnings
Do not apply to broken, irritated, or very sensitive skin, and avoid the eye area. Government and industry safety reviewers (Health Canada, Cosmetic Ingredient Review) note restrictions on concentration, pH, and product type — higher strengths are for professionals only and consumer products should be low concentration or rinse-off. Research and chemical safety reviews also report skin and eye irritation and that glycolic acid can increase skin absorption of other substances. If you see persistent redness, swelling, blistering, or if the baby seems unusually fussy after contact, stop use and contact your pediatrician.
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Safety Risk Labels
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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Alternative Names for Glycolic Acid
This ingredient may also be listed as:
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Research Articles on Glycolic Acid
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Glycolic Acid safety and effects.
Common Questions About Glycolic Acid
Is this ingredient safe for newborns to use Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic Acid is not recommended for 0-6 month old babies due to potential safety risks.
What are the irritant risks of Glycolic Acid 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 absorbed risks of Glycolic Acid for newborns?
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What are the banned risks of Glycolic Acid 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 organ risk risks of Glycolic Acid 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 are the fertility risks of Glycolic Acid 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 sun burn risks of Glycolic Acid for newborns?
May increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and cause faster burning. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What are the eczema risks of Glycolic Acid 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 products contain Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic Acid is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
When can infants start using products with Glycolic Acid?
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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