For infants (0-6 months): overall low concern but take extra care. Studies show it may sometimes irritate skin or eyes and it can help other ingredients pass through the skin more easily — which matters because baby skin is thinner and more absorbent.
Choose products made and labeled for babies/newborns. If a product contains this ingredient, do a small patch test on the baby’s inner forearm or thigh and wait 24 hours before wider use. Avoid using it on the face, near the eyes or mouth, in the diaper area, or on broken or sore skin. Stop use and call your pediatrician if you see redness, swelling, a rash, or any other sign of irritation.
Some safety reviews (Cosmetic Ingredient Review and the European Chemicals Agency) found limited evidence of skin or eye irritation in animal studies and note it can act as a penetration enhancer. Environment Canada considers it low concern for systemic toxicity and not persistent. Some product standards restrict its use without extra safety testing. Watch for redness, rash, swelling, eye irritation, or breathing problems and avoid this ingredient on newborns’ broken or very sensitive skin.
Scan the full ingredient label and understand if it's safe for your child.
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.
This ingredient may also be listed as:
Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.
This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Sodium Levulinate or its alternative names.
Yes, Sodium Levulinate is generally considered safe for 0-6 month old babies based on current research.
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. 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.
Could weaken or confuse immune system. 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.
Some studies link this to future fertility or reproductive issues. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Sodium Levulinate 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.
Use our camera scanner to analyze more ingredient labels
Scan Another Product