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Can older babies use Propylene Glycol?
ℹ️General Overview
For babies 6–12 months old, propylene glycol is commonly used in wipes and lotions and is usually okay in the very small amounts found in baby products. However, it can irritate sensitive skin, especially if the skin is broken, red, or in the diaper area. Babies with eczema or very sensitive skin are more likely to react.
✅What to Do
Use products made for babies and follow product instructions. Do a small patch test: apply a tiny amount to the inside of the forearm or thigh and watch for 24 hours. Avoid putting products with propylene glycol on broken, red, or raw skin (for example, inside the diaper area). If your baby has eczema, extremely dry skin, or a history of reactions, talk with your pediatrician before using. Stop use and wash the area if you see redness, swelling, stinging, or a rash.
⚠️Warnings
Watch for skin irritation (redness, rash, bumps or stinging). This ingredient is known to sometimes irritate skin (source: US National Library of Medicine). It can increase skin absorption of other ingredients (source: Cosmetic Ingredient Review), so avoid applying it together with strong actives on the same area. Some government reviews also note potential organ-system concerns at higher exposures (source: Environment Canada) and regulatory groups set limits on how it is used in cosmetics (source: Cosmetic Ingredient Review). Never use industrial or undiluted forms of propylene glycol on a baby. Seek medical care if your baby develops swelling, breathing trouble, or a widespread allergic reaction.
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Safety Risk Labels
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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Alternative Names for Propylene Glycol
This ingredient may also be listed as:
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Products Containing Propylene Glycol
This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Propylene Glycol or its alternative names.
Research Articles on Propylene Glycol
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Propylene Glycol safety and effects.
Common Questions About Propylene Glycol
Can older babies safely use Propylene Glycol?
Use caution with Propylene Glycol for 6-12 month old babies. Some safety concerns have been identified.
What are the irritant risks of Propylene Glycol 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 immune system risks of Propylene Glycol 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 organ risk risks of Propylene Glycol 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 absorbed risks of Propylene Glycol 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 asthma risks of Propylene Glycol for older babies?
Can make breathing issues like asthma worse in babies and kids. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
What products contain Propylene Glycol?
Propylene Glycol 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 Propylene Glycol?
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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