Oxybenzone is a chemical used in some sunscreens. For toddlers and preschoolers (2â5 years), it is more concerning than ingredients that sit on top of the skin because it can get into the body and has been linked in studies to hormone changes and allergic reactions. That makes it a moderate concern for regular use on young children.
When protecting a 2â5 year old from the sun, choose sunscreen products that do not list oxybenzone. Prefer mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, dress children in sun-protective clothing and hats, stay in the shade during peak sun hours, and use sunscreen only on exposed areas. If you must use a sunscreen with oxybenzone, apply it sparingly, avoid broken skin, do a small patch test first, and do not use it on infants under 6 months.
Watch for rash, redness, swelling, blistering, or other signs of a skin reaction â stop use and see a doctor if these occur. Be especially cautious if your child has a history of sensitive skin or allergies. The concern comes from multiple scientific studies and regulatory reviews that report skin absorption, possible hormone-related effects, and cases of allergy/photoallergy, and from some national limits on its use.
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.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Oxybenzone safety and effects.
Oxybenzone is not recommended for 2-5 year old children due to potential safety risks.
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Could weaken or confuse immune system. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
May mess with natural hormone development in babies and children. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Builds up in the body over time with repeated use. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Possible negative effects on the environment 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.
Oxybenzone 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 2-5 year old children. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
Use our camera scanner to analyze more ingredient labels
Scan Another Product