For babies 6–12 months (infants), Polysorbate 60 is usually low risk when used on normal, unbroken skin. It helps mix oil and water in lotions and creams. The biggest concerns are rare irritation and possible tiny amounts of manufacturing contaminants.
Choose products labeled for babies from brands that test ingredients. Before using a new cream, do a small patch test on your baby’s forearm or the inside of the wrist and wait 24–48 hours to check for redness or irritation. Don’t put products with this ingredient on broken or irritated skin. If your baby has very sensitive skin, eczema, or a rash, ask your pediatrician before use. If any redness, swelling, or fussiness appears after use, stop and talk to your child’s doctor.
Watch for skin irritation or eye irritation — stop use if you see rash, redness, swelling, or the baby seems uncomfortable. There are reported manufacturing impurity concerns (ethylene oxide and 1,4‑dioxane); these are not the ingredient itself but possible contaminants formed during processing. Some industry reviewers recommend limiting concentration and formulation to avoid irritation (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), and government reviews note low overall toxicity but also record these contamination concerns (Environment Canada and industry safety reviews). Prefer products whose makers test for these impurities or belong to verification programs that require testing.
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This list shows products that contain Polysorbate 60 or its alternative names.
Yes, Polysorbate 60 is generally considered safe for 6-12 month old babies based on current research.
Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
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.
Polysorbate 60 is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
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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