Petrolatum

Petrolatum molecular structure

1-2 year old toddlersSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this toddler-safe to use Petrolatum?

YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 3 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Petrolatum is generally considered safe for 1-2 year old toddlers when used in topical products. Watch for toddler-specific sensitivities.

ℹ️General Overview

Purified white petrolatum is generally safe for toddlers (1–2 years) when used as a thin, protective layer on small areas of skin.

What to Do

Pick fragrance-free products that say white petrolatum, petroleum jelly, USP, or pharmaceutical grade. Use a small amount on clean, dry skin. For diaper area, apply a light layer and let the skin breathe. Avoid putting it inside the nose or mouth. Stop using it if the skin gets red or itchy, and ask your pediatrician for deep cuts or infected skin.

⚠️Warnings

Only use highly purified petrolatum because some countries allow it in cosmetics only when impurities are removed (EU Cosmetics Directive). Petroleum substances have been flagged as potentially harmful at higher exposures (Environment Canada), so avoid heavy, full‑body, daily use over long periods. Some research studies have found certain mineral oils can build up in the body, so keep applications small and targeted. Choose trusted brands and avoid added fragrance.

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Banned: In the EU, this ingredient is restricted unless it is very pure, because it can carry PAH leftovers from oil. This rule comes from the EU Cosmetics Directive.
Organ Risk: Canada’s environmental health agency lists it as expected to be harmful and a high health priority. With repeat use, it may stress organs like the liver.
Builds Up: Studies in people (2015) and in lab rats (2017) found mineral oil parts can collect in body tissues over time. Small daily amounts can add up.
Long-Term Risk: Because it can build up in the body and may carry PAH impurities, risks can grow with years of use. Purity limits in the EU were set to lower this risk.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Petrolatum

This ingredient may also be listed as:

white soft paraffinwhite petrolatumpetrolatumPETROLATUMYELLOW PETROLATUMPETROLATUM WHITEPETROLATUM AMBERMINERAL JELLYMINERAL GREASE (PETROLATUM)PETROLEUM JELLY

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

Products Containing Petrolatum

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain Petrolatum or its alternative names.

Common Questions About Petrolatum

Is this toddler-safe to use Petrolatum?

Yes, Petrolatum is generally considered safe for 1-2 year old toddlers based on current research.

What are the banned risks of Petrolatum for toddlers?

Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What are the organ risk risks of Petrolatum for toddlers?

May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What are the builds up risks of Petrolatum for toddlers?

Builds up in the body over time with repeated use. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What are the long-term risk risks of Petrolatum for toddlers?

Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What products contain Petrolatum?

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

When can toddlers using products with Petrolatum?

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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