For school-age children (5 years and older) polyethylene is generally safe for normal skin use. Long-term health risks are considered low, but it can sometimes cause irritation.
Use products made for kids or gentle skin-care. Do a small patch test on the arm first. Don’t put it on broken, red, or sore skin. Avoid getting products in the eyes or letting a child breathe in powders. If your child has eczema or very sensitive skin, test carefully and speak with your pediatrician before regular use.
Watch for redness, stinging, rash, or eye irritation and stop use if these happen. The warning about irritation comes from cosmetic safety reviews (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) that report skin, eye, or lung irritation as the main concern. Also note that some brands limit or restrict this ingredient unless they have supporting safety data.
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This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Polyethylene or its alternative names.
Yes, Polyethylene is generally considered safe for 5+ year old children based on current research.
Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin.
Polyethylene 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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