Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline Wax molecular structure

5+ year old children • Skin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this kid-friendly to use Microcrystalline Wax?

✅
YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 0 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Microcrystalline Wax is generally considered safe for 5+ year old children when used in topical products. Kids may have different tolerance levels.

ℹ️General Overview

For children 5 years and older (school-age kids), microcrystalline wax is generally safe to use on the skin in normal cosmetic amounts. It acts as a thickener or moisturizing base and is not linked to strong evidence of cancer, allergy, or reproductive harm.

✅What to Do

Use products containing this wax the way the label says. Do a small patch test on the inside of the arm first if your child has sensitive skin. Avoid putting it on broken or irritated skin. For everyday use, choose products from reputable brands and follow directions—do not apply large amounts over long periods without checking with a pediatrician.

⚠️Warnings

Some scientific studies and Environment Canada evaluations report that mineral oil–type waxes can build up in body tissues (persistence and bioaccumulation). Because of that, avoid heavy daily application over large body areas for long periods. Also, some product verification programs restrict use of this ingredient unless manufacturers provide safety data. Watch for any skin redness, rash, or swelling and stop use if those happen. If you have concerns about long-term exposure, talk with your child’s healthcare provider.

Confidence: HIGH

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Builds Up: Research on mineral-oil-based waxes found wax components can collect in animal organs and have been measured in human tissues. A government review also flagged moderate persistence and bioaccumulation for this material (2015 human tissue study; 2017 rat study; Environment Canada review).
Absorbed: Although used on the skin, studies have detected mineral-oil hydrocarbons from similar waxes inside body tissues and in lab animals, which means topical contact can lead to absorption into the body (2015 human tissue study; 2017 rat study).
Organ Risk: A regulatory assessment classified this class of petroleum waxes as a medium human-health priority and noted non-reproductive organ system toxicity concerns, indicating potential harm to organs with repeated exposure (Environment Canada assessment).
Long-Term Risk: Because the ingredient can persist and build up in tissue over time, long-term or repeated exposure may raise health concerns later in life. This is supported by measurements of accumulated hydrocarbons in people and regulatory concern about persistence (2015 human tissue study; Environment Canada review).
Environmental: Reviews have raised concerns about moderate persistence and bioaccumulation in the environment for these petroleum-derived waxes, meaning they may linger and affect wildlife or ecosystems (Environment Canada review).

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Microcrystalline Wax

This ingredient may also be listed as:

microcrystalline waxcera microcristallinaCera MicrocristallinaMicrocrystalline waxWAX, MICROCRYSTALLINE, HYDROGENATEDHYDROGENATED WAX, MICROCRYSTALLINEMICROCRYSTALLINE HYDROGENATED WAXHYDROTREATED MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX; HYDROTREATED MICROCRYSTALLINE WAXHYDROCARBON WAXES (PETROLEUM), HYDROTREATED MICROCRYST.HYDROGENATED MICROCRISTALLINE WAXHYDROGENATED MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX

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

Products Containing Microcrystalline Wax

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain Microcrystalline Wax or its alternative names.

Common Questions About Microcrystalline Wax

Is this kid-friendly to use Microcrystalline Wax?

Yes, Microcrystalline Wax is generally considered safe for 5+ year old children based on current research.

What are the builds up risks of Microcrystalline Wax for children?

Builds up in the body over time with repeated use.

What are the absorbed risks of Microcrystalline Wax for children?

Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream.

What are the organ risk risks of Microcrystalline Wax for children?

May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use.

What are the long-term risk risks of Microcrystalline Wax for children?

Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure.

What are the environmental risks of Microcrystalline Wax for children?

Possible negative effects on the environment

What products contain Microcrystalline Wax?

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

When can kids start using products with Microcrystalline Wax?

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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