For school-age children (5 years and older), polyethylene glycol is usually safe to use on the skin in typical amounts. The biggest concern is not the ingredient itself but small impurities that can come from how it’s made.
Choose products used on your 5+ child that list full ingredients. Prefer brands that say they test for or limit impurities like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. Use PEG products as directed, don’t apply them to cuts or very red, broken skin, and avoid heavy daily use over large areas unless recommended by a doctor.
Watch for skin irritation or a rash — stop use and check with your pediatrician if one appears. The ingredient’s safety notes point out possible contamination with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane and some reviews note non-reproductive organ toxicity concerns; those are the reasons to prefer products that test for impurities and to avoid frequent long-term use on large areas of skin.
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This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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This ingredient may also be listed as:
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This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Polyethylene Glycol or its alternative names.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Polyethylene Glycol safety and effects.
Yes, Polyethylene Glycol is generally considered safe for 5+ year old children based on current research.
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use.
Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure.
Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure.
Polyethylene Glycol 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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