Check for Different Age (6 available)
Is this safe for 0-6 month old newborns to use Phenoxyethanol?
ℹ️General Overview
For infants (0–6 months): be careful. This preservative can irritate delicate baby skin and some countries limit how it’s used. It is not known to cause cancer or birth defects at normal cosmetic levels, but irritation is the main concern.
✅What to Do
When possible, choose products made specifically for babies that do not list this ingredient. If you need to use a product that contains phenoxyethanol: use a small amount, avoid the diaper area and broken skin, keep it away from eyes and mouth, and do a short patch check on a small area first. Stop use and contact your pediatrician if you see redness, rash, swelling, breathing changes, or unusual fussiness.
⚠️Warnings
Watch for skin redness, rash, swelling, or breathing changes—these are signs of irritation or allergy. Regulatory and expert sources note it is an irritant (EU hazard labeling) and that some countries place limits on its use in cosmetics (Japan Ministry of Health); industry reviews also recommend concentration limits and note data gaps (Cosmetic Ingredient Review). Some product certification programs may restrict or prohibit its use without extra safety proof. Avoid using products with this ingredient on infants’ broken skin or in large amounts.
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Safety Risk Labels
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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Alternative Names for Phenoxyethanol
This ingredient may also be listed as:
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Products Containing Phenoxyethanol
This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Phenoxyethanol or its alternative names.
Research Articles on Phenoxyethanol
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Phenoxyethanol safety and effects.
Common Questions About Phenoxyethanol
Is this ingredient safe for newborns to use Phenoxyethanol?
Phenoxyethanol is not recommended for 0-6 month old babies due to potential safety risks.
What are the irritant risks of Phenoxyethanol 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 asthma risks of Phenoxyethanol 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 Phenoxyethanol 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 absorbed risks of Phenoxyethanol 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 Phenoxyethanol 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 Phenoxyethanol?
Phenoxyethanol is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
When can infants start using products with Phenoxyethanol?
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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