Synthetic Wax

Synthetic Wax molecular structure

5+ year old childrenSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this kid-friendly to use Synthetic Wax?

YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 1 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Synthetic Wax is generally considered safe for 5+ year old children when used in topical products. Kids may have different tolerance levels.

ℹ️General Overview

For kids 5 years and older, synthetic wax in creams and lotions is usually low risk. It helps products feel smooth and thick. Major safety reviews rate it low for cancer, allergy, and effects on growth or reproduction.

What to Do

Use products with synthetic wax the same way you would other lotions: apply to normal, intact skin as directed. Prefer products made for children when possible. Do a small skin patch test the first time you use a new product on your child. Don’t apply large amounts every day over the whole body for long periods. If the product label says the ingredient is restricted or the product is intended for babies, choose an alternative for younger children.

⚠️Warnings

Watch for any skin redness, itching, or rash and stop use if these appear. Some scientific reviews note that certain wax components can build up in body tissues over long-term exposure (studies on mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons); regulatory reviewers also recommend limits on purity and use (Cosmetic Ingredient Review, Environment Canada, FDA). Because of those findings, some product-safety programs restrict use of this ingredient unless makers provide extra safety data. Avoid using products with synthetic wax on broken or irritated skin, and don’t use this ingredient on babies and infants unless a pediatrician approves.

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Builds Up: Lab and tissue analyses show components of these waxes can collect in body fat and organs over time. Animal studies and human tissue work found mineral-oil hydrocarbons that do not clear quickly, and the ingredient is flagged for possible persistence and bioaccumulation (low–moderate). This means repeated use could lead to higher levels in the body.
Absorbed: Tests have measured wax-related hydrocarbons inside animal and human tissues, which means parts of the ingredient can enter the body rather than stay only on the skin. Because it can get into tissues, there is a route for internal exposure from topical use.
Environmental: Some assessments note possible persistence and tendency to build up, raising concern for the environment if released widely. While other regulatory reviews have not found it to be clearly persistent, the mixed findings mean there is a real, if modest, environmental worry about long-term build-up.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Synthetic Wax

This ingredient may also be listed as:

synthetic waxSYNTHETIC WAXPARAFFIN WAX FUME (ACGIH)PARAFFIN WAX FUMEPARAFFIN WAXES AND HYDROCARBON WAXESPARAFFIN; PARAFFIN; PARAFFIN WAX; PARAFFIN WAX; PARAFFIN WAXES; PARAFFIN WAX (PETROLEUM); POLY(METHYLENE)WAX; SYNTHETIC PARAFFIN WAX, FISCHER-TROPSCH; WAX EXTRACT

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

Products Containing Synthetic Wax

This ingredient is found in the following products:

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

Common Questions About Synthetic Wax

Is this kid-friendly to use Synthetic Wax?

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

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

Builds up in the body over time with repeated use.

What are the absorbed risks of Synthetic Wax for children?

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

What are the environmental risks of Synthetic Wax for children?

Possible negative effects on the environment

What products contain Synthetic Wax?

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

When can kids start using products with Synthetic 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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