For children 5 years and older (school-aged kids, older children and teens): this ingredient is commonly used to clean skin and reduce germs. Most children tolerate it, but some can get skin irritation or allergic reactions. The ingredient is more concerning for younger babies, so being cautious with older children is still important.
Only use products that list the ingredient and follow the product label. Do a small patch test first: put a tiny amount on the inside of the forearm, wait 24 hours, and check for redness or itching. Avoid using it on large areas of broken skin, near the eyes or mouth, or on mucous membranes. Use children’s products or those that state safe concentrations when possible. If your child has asthma or a history of severe allergies, talk with your pediatrician before use.
Stop use and seek medical care if your child develops a rash, hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or other signs of a serious allergic reaction — peer‑reviewed reports and allergen compilations note strong evidence of skin allergy in some people. Some governments have rules about how this ingredient may be used or the concentrations allowed (for example Health Canada and other regulatory reviews), so follow product labeling and local guidance. There are also notes from safety reviews that industry assessments rely on reported product concentrations, so products without clear concentration information have more uncertainty.
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This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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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 Chlorhexidine Digluconate or its alternative names.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Chlorhexidine Digluconate safety and effects.
Use caution with Chlorhexidine Digluconate for 5+ year old children. Some safety concerns have been identified.
Could weaken or confuse immune system.
Can make breathing issues like asthma worse in babies and kids.
Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin.
Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries.
Builds up in the body over time with repeated use.
Possible negative effects on the environment
Chlorhexidine Digluconate 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 5+ year old children. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
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