Petrolatum
6-12 month old babies • Skin contact product
Check for Different Age (6 available)
Can older babies use Petrolatum?
ℹ️General Overview
For babies 6 to 12 months, purified white petrolatum is okay to use on small areas as a skin barrier and moisturizer.
✅What to Do
Pick products labeled white petrolatum, fully refined, or USP/pharmaceutical grade. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin on small spots (like cheeks, hands, or diaper area). Let skin breathe; do not cover the whole body. Use as needed, not all day every day.
⚠️Warnings
Avoid products that do not state they are well refined, because impurities called PAHs can be present (Contamination concerns: Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons). The EU Cosmetics Directive restricts use unless purity is proven—choose purified grades. Environment Canada has flagged potential non-reproductive organ system toxicity—use sparingly and on small areas. Some studies report mineral oil components can build up in the body with heavy, long-term use (Mineral oil in human tissues, 2015; Mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons in rats, 2017). Keep away from the nose and mouth to prevent accidental inhalation or licking.
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Safety Risk Labels
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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Alternative Names for Petrolatum
This ingredient may also be listed as:
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Products Containing Petrolatum
This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Petrolatum or its alternative names.
Research Articles on Petrolatum
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Petrolatum safety and effects.
Common Questions About Petrolatum
Can older babies safely use Petrolatum?
Use caution with Petrolatum for 6-12 month old babies. Some safety concerns have been identified.
What are the banned risks of Petrolatum 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 are the organ risk risks of Petrolatum for older babies?
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What are the builds up risks of Petrolatum 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 long-term risk risks of Petrolatum 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 Petrolatum?
Petrolatum 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 Petrolatum?
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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