Check for Different Age (6 available)
Can older babies use Benzoic Acid?
ℹ️General Overview
Benzoic acid is a preservative used in some lotions and creams. For babies aged 6–12 months it is usually low risk when present at the low levels used in baby products, but a small number of infants may get skin irritation or an allergic rash.
✅What to Do
Choose products made for babies that list ingredients clearly and follow label directions. Do a small patch test on your baby's inner forearm and wait 24 hours before wider use. Avoid applying products with benzoic acid to broken or inflamed skin, near the eyes, or under diapers for long periods. If you prefer extra caution, pick products labeled without benzoates.
⚠️Warnings
Stop use and contact your pediatrician if you see redness, swelling, blistering, rash, or any breathing difficulty after applying a product. Note that safety reviews and regulators (Cosmetic Ingredient Review, Japan Ministry of Health) recommend limits on how much can be used in cosmetics, and agencies such as the EPA and Environment Canada note some data gaps. Some product certification programs may also restrict use unless the manufacturer provides safety documentation. If your baby has eczema or a history of skin allergies, be especially cautious and consider avoiding products with benzoic acid.
Are you holding the product?
Scan the full ingredient label and understand if it's safe for your child.
Safety Risk Labels
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.
Alternative Names for Benzoic Acid
This ingredient may also be listed as:
Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.
Products Containing Benzoic Acid
This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Benzoic Acid or its alternative names.
Common Questions About Benzoic Acid
Can older babies safely use Benzoic Acid?
Yes, Benzoic Acid is generally considered safe for 6-12 month old babies based on current research.
What are the banned risks of Benzoic Acid for older babies?
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What products contain Benzoic Acid?
Benzoic Acid is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
Is this appropriate for older babies to using products with Benzoic Acid?
The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for 6-12 month old babies. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
Want to scan another product?
Use our camera scanner to analyze more ingredient labels
Scan Another Product