Protease

Protease molecular structure

2-5 year old preschoolersSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Safe for preschoolers to use Protease?

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USE WITH CAUTION
Danger Score: 4 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Protease use with caution for 2-5 year old children when used in topical products. Consider preschooler activity levels.

ℹ️General Overview

For toddlers and young children (2–5 years), protease is usually low risk for things like cancer or long-term development, but it can cause allergic reactions in some people. That makes it something to be careful with around young children.

What to Do

If you see a product that lists protease, choose products made for children when possible. Do a small patch test on a clean area (inner forearm) and wait 24 hours before using more widely. Don’t use products with protease on broken, red, or very dry/eczema-prone skin. Stop use right away and wash the area if you see redness, swelling, or itching, and call your pediatrician if it is severe.

⚠️Warnings

Studies in scientific journals show protease can be a human allergen — so watch for rash, itching, swelling, or breathing problems. A cosmetics safety database also notes that this ingredient is restricted in some verified product programs unless safety is proven. Additionally, the U.S. food authority recognizes protease as safe for limited food uses, but that does not remove the risk of skin allergy. If your child has eczema, asthma, or many known allergies, avoid protease-containing products unless a doctor approves.

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Immune system: Peer-reviewed studies show this protease acts as a human allergen and can trigger immune reactions. That means some people — including children with sensitive skin — could have allergic responses after using products that contain it.
Irritant: Because the ingredient can cause allergic reactions in people, it can also lead to skin redness, itching, or rashes when applied to the skin. This risk is supported by peer-reviewed literature reporting strong evidence of human allergen effects.
Eczema: Allergic or immune reactions to this protease can trigger or make eczema and similar skin conditions worse. Peer-reviewed sources note strong allergen evidence, which makes flare-ups more likely for children with eczema-prone skin.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Protease

This ingredient may also be listed as:

proteasePROTEASEBACILLUS SUBTILIS NEUTRAL PROTEASEA.S. 1.398BACTERIAL PROTEASE

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

Common Questions About Protease

Safe for preschoolers to use Protease?

Use caution with Protease for 2-5 year old children. Some safety concerns have been identified.

What are the immune system risks of Protease for preschoolers?

Could weaken or confuse immune system. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What are the irritant risks of Protease for preschoolers?

Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What are the eczema risks of Protease for preschoolers?

Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.

What products contain Protease?

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

Is this suitable for preschoolers to using products with Protease?

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.

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