Octyl Salicylate

Octyl Salicylate molecular structure

6-12 month old babies β€’ Skin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Can older babies use Octyl Salicylate?

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NOT RECOMMENDED
Danger Score: 7 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Octyl Salicylate not recommended for 6-12 month old babies when used in topical products. Monitor for any reactions in older babies.

ℹ️General Overview

For babies 6–12 months, this ingredient has some warnings. It’s not one of the highest-risk chemicals, but because it can be absorbed through skin and there are reports of contamination with salicylic acid and some animal findings, it’s safer to be cautious with babies.

βœ…What to Do

If possible, choose products made for babies that avoid this ingredient. If you do use a product that contains it: use it sparingly, do not apply it over the whole body every day, avoid putting it on broken or irritated skin, and do a small patch test first. For sun protection on babies under 6 months, avoid sunscreens and use shade and clothing; for 6–12 month olds prefer physical (mineral) sunscreens or products specifically labeled for babies and follow directions. If you see redness, rash, or other reactions, stop use and see your pediatrician.

⚠️Warnings

Watch for skin redness, rash, or eye irritation after use β€” animal studies showed irritation at high doses (peer-reviewed studies). There are concerns about contamination with salicylic acid and possible developmental or hormone-related effects reported in regulatory reviews and peer-reviewed literature (Cosmetic Ingredient Review and ECHA assessment). Because babies absorb more through the skin, avoid frequent or large-area use and avoid wipes or daily lotions that contain this ingredient.

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Fertility: Animal studies and a regulatory assessment of salicylate esters found developmental and reproductive effects at moderate doses. These findings mean repeated or high exposure could affect future fertility or development, so the ingredient is flagged for reproductive concern (based on peer-reviewed studies and an ECHA assessment).
Absorbed: This ingredient is used on the skin and is noted to enhance skin absorption. There are also contamination concerns (salicylic acid) reported in the safety data, so the material β€” or contaminants from it β€” can enter the body after topical use (based on peer-reviewed literature and the ingredient safety notes).
Sun Burn: An industry safety review says this ingredient should be used in ways that avoid increasing sun sensitivity (for example, with limits or sun protection directions). If not formulated or used correctly, it can raise the risk of faster sunburn.
Long-Term Risk: High-level contamination concerns plus animal and lab signals (including mutation and reproductive effects) have led safety reviewers to recommend use limits. Those flags point to possible longer-term health concerns with repeated exposure if limits are not followed (based on peer-reviewed studies and regulatory assessments).

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Octyl Salicylate

This ingredient may also be listed as:

BUTYLOCTYL SALICYLATESALICYLIC ACID, 2-BUTYLOCTYL ESTER2-BUTYLOCTYL ESTER SALICYLIC ACID

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

Products Containing Octyl Salicylate

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain Octyl Salicylate or its alternative names.

Common Questions About Octyl Salicylate

Can older babies safely use Octyl Salicylate?

Octyl Salicylate is not recommended for 6-12 month old babies due to potential safety risks.

What are the fertility risks of Octyl Salicylate for older babies?

Some studies link this to future fertility or reproductive issues. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the absorbed risks of Octyl Salicylate 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 sun burn risks of Octyl Salicylate for older babies?

May increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and cause faster burning. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the long-term risk risks of Octyl Salicylate for older babies?

Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What products contain Octyl Salicylate?

Octyl Salicylate 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 Octyl Salicylate?

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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