2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)

6-12 month old babiesSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Can older babies use Hexyldecanol?

YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 3 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Hexyldecanol is generally considered safe for 6-12 month old babies when used in topical products. Monitor for any reactions in older babies.

ℹ️General Overview

For babies aged 6 to 12 months, Hexyldecanol is generally low risk when used in small amounts on the skin. It is an emollient (a skin-conditioning ingredient) and most data show low concern. However, there are a few reports and agency notes that mean we should be careful with infants.

What to Do

If you use a product that contains Hexyldecanol on a 6–12 month old baby: start with a small test area first (patch test on the arm or leg) and wait 24–48 hours to check for redness or swelling; use products formulated for babies and follow the product directions; avoid applying to broken, red, or reactive skin; stop use and wash the area if you see any worsening redness, hives, swelling, or blistering; if a strong reaction occurs, contact your pediatrician. For routine use, choose low-fragrance or fragrance-free baby products and use only as needed.

⚠️Warnings

There is one published human case report of severe dermatitis linked to Hexyldecanol (reported 2008), so watch closely for signs of an allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. An agency has noted uncertainty about effects on the hormone system, and another has data suggesting the ingredient may accumulate in people — these are reasons to avoid frequent, heavy use on infants. Also be mindful of environmental concerns noted by another agency. If you see persistent or severe skin changes, or any signs of systemic illness (fever, widespread rash, swelling), stop use and seek medical advice.

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Builds Up: The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) notes the ingredient is suspected or measured to accumulate in people. That means it can stay in the body over time after repeated use.
Absorbed: Because ECHA found evidence the ingredient can accumulate in people, it is likely able to get past the skin and into the body when used topically.
Irritant: A published human case report from 2008 describes severe skin inflammation caused by hexyldecanol, showing it can cause strong local skin reactions in some people.
Eczema: The same clinical report described dermatitis severe enough to mimic other conditions, which means this ingredient can trigger or worsen eczema-like skin problems in sensitive users.
Immune system: A documented human case of dermatitis suggests the ingredient can provoke allergic or immune reactions in some people (case report, 2008).
Environmental: Environment Canada flagged the ingredient as a suspected environmental toxin, indicating possible harm to wildlife or ecosystems if it is released into the environment.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)

This ingredient may also be listed as:

hexyldecanolEINECS 219-370-1JARCOL I 16NJCOL 160BR2-OCTYL-1-OCTANOLQ27251672ISOFOL 16NSC 2399ACMC-20ANTVNJCOL 160BRARILANIT G 16

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

Products Containing 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) or its alternative names.

Common Questions About 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)

Can older babies safely use 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)?

Yes, 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) is generally considered safe for 6-12 month old babies based on current research.

What are the builds up risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for older babies?

Builds up in the body over time with repeated use. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the absorbed risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for older babies?

Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the irritant risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for older babies?

Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the eczema risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for older babies?

Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the immune system risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for older babies?

Could weaken or confuse immune system. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the environmental risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for older babies?

Possible negative effects on the environment This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What products contain 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)?

2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) 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 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)?

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.

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