1-2 year old toddlers • Skin contact product
For toddlers (1-2 years), Ceteareth-20 is not among the highest-risk ingredients, but it carries some avoidable risks. It can contain trace impurities and may help other substances pass through a child’s skin, so extra caution is warranted for little ones.
If possible, choose products for your 1- to 2-year-old that do not list Ceteareth-20. If using a product that contains it, prefer rinse-off products (like shampoos that are washed away) rather than leave-on creams. Avoid use on broken, red, or irritated skin. Keep products away from your child’s mouth and eyes and stop use if you notice any redness or rash.
Watch for skin irritation, redness, swelling, or eye irritation after use — stop use and see a pediatrician if these occur. The safety reviews (Cosmetic Ingredient Review and Environment Canada) flag two specific contamination concerns (ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane) and note that this ingredient can increase skin absorption of other chemicals. Also note that some product verification programs restrict this ingredient, which may indicate manufacturers need to show extra testing to use it safely.
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This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Ceteareth-20 or its alternative names.
Use caution with Ceteareth-20 for 1-2 year old toddlers. Some safety concerns have been identified.
Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Ceteareth-20 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 1-2 year old toddlers. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
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