Propylene Glycol

0-6 month old newbornsSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

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

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NOT RECOMMENDED
Danger Score: 7 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Propylene Glycol not recommended for 0-6 month old babies when used in topical products. Always consult your pediatrician for newborns.

ℹ️General Overview

For newborns and babies (0–6 months): be cautious. Propylene glycol can irritate sensitive skin and helps other chemicals get through the skin. Babies’ skin is thinner, so they can be more affected.

What to Do

Avoid products with propylene glycol on baby skin unless a doctor says it’s needed. If you must use a product: use a very small amount, only on a small area, avoid putting it under diapers or tight clothing, and choose products labeled for infants or that list low concentrations. Stop use and call your doctor if you see redness, rash, swelling, or any unusual behavior.

⚠️Warnings

Do not use on broken or inflamed skin. Skin irritation is reported by medical sources (U.S. National Library of Medicine). It can increase absorption of other ingredients (Cosmetic Ingredient Review). Some government reviews have raised concerns about organ system effects at higher exposures (Environment Canada). If product use is recommended by a healthcare professional, follow their instructions and report any skin reaction right away.

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Irritant: The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists this chemical as a skin, eye, and lung irritant. That means it can cause red, itchy skin, sting the eyes, or make breathing uncomfortable — risks that matter for babies and children with delicate skin and airways.
Immune system: A safety review by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review found limited evidence of skin and immune-system effects. This means some people can get allergic or immune reactions after skin contact.
Organ Risk: Environment Canada has classified this ingredient as expected to be toxic or harmful and of medium human-health priority for non-reproductive organ effects. Repeated or heavy exposure could pose risks to organs such as the liver, kidneys, or lungs.
Absorbed: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review identifies this ingredient as a penetration enhancer. It can help itself and other ingredients pass through the skin into the body, so more of the substance may get into the bloodstream.
Asthma: Because it can irritate the lungs (noted by the U.S. National Library of Medicine), inhaling sprays or vapors could make breathing problems or asthma worse in sensitive children.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Propylene Glycol

This ingredient may also be listed as:

propylene glycol1,2-PROPANEDIOL, SAJ FIRST GRADE, >=99.0%1,2-PROPANEDIOL, P.A., ACS REAGENT, 99.5%D0007815490-EP2311839A115490-EP2305683A1C00583SOYBEAN OIL,POLYMER WITH BENZOIC ACID,PENTAERYTHRITOL,PHTHALIC ANHYDRIDE AND PROPYLENE GLYCOL1,2-PROPANEDIOL 100 MICROG/ML IN ACETONITRILE15490-EP2305669A11,2-PROPANEDIOL, TESTED ACCORDING TO PH.EUR.PROPYLENE GLYCOL

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

Products Containing Propylene Glycol

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain Propylene Glycol or its alternative names.

Common Questions About Propylene Glycol

Is this ingredient safe for newborns to use Propylene Glycol?

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

What are the irritant risks of Propylene Glycol 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 immune system risks of Propylene Glycol for newborns?

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

What are the organ risk risks of Propylene Glycol 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 Propylene Glycol 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 asthma risks of Propylene Glycol 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 products contain Propylene Glycol?

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

When can infants start using products with Propylene Glycol?

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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