Propylparaben

6-12 month old babiesSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Can older babies use Propylparaben?

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NO - AVOID
Danger Score: 9 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Propylparaben avoid - not safe for 6-12 month old babies when used in topical products. Monitor for any reactions in older babies.

ℹ️General Overview

For infants (6-12 months), propylparaben is not recommended. There is evidence it can act like a hormone and studies show possible effects on developing reproductive systems. Babies' skin absorbs more and their bodies are still developing, so extra caution is needed.

What to Do

Avoid products that list propylparaben (or 'propyl paraben', 'E216') on the label for babies 6-12 months. Choose products specifically made for infants that are paraben-free and fragrance-free. Do not put products with propylparaben on broken or irritated skin, the diaper area, or near the mouth. If you are unsure, pick a different product or ask your pediatrician.

⚠️Warnings

Watch for skin redness, rash, swelling, or hives after using a product that may contain propylparaben — these are signs of an allergic reaction. Regulatory reviews and scientific studies (European safety reviews, chemical agency findings, and peer-reviewed animal studies) have raised concerns about hormone-like effects and developmental risks; because of that, avoid use on infants. If you suspect a reaction or have concerns about developmental exposure, contact your pediatrician.

Confidence: HIGH

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Confuse Hormones: Lab and wildlife studies show propylparaben can act like weak estrogen, and major regulators have flagged it as an endocrine disruptor. That means it can mimic hormones and confuse normal body signals in children.
Hormones: Because regulators and multiple studies identify propylparaben as an endocrine disruptor, it may interfere with natural hormone development in babies and young children.
Fertility: Animal studies found effects on the male reproductive system at low doses, and a European chemicals agency lists possible reproductive or developmental harm. This means it may affect future fertility or reproductive development.
Irritant: Human reports and safety reviews show propylparaben can cause contact reactions like hives or skin irritation. That makes it a real risk for redness, itching, or rashes on sensitive baby skin.
Eczema: There is documented evidence of contact urticaria and allergic skin reactions linked to propylparaben, so it can trigger or worsen eczema in children who are sensitive.
Immune system: Reviews and human case reports give moderate evidence that propylparaben can act as an immune toxicant or allergen, meaning it can trigger immune reactions in some people.
Banned: Some countries and expert panels restrict or limit cosmetic use of propylparaben (for example, specific bans or limits for products for very young children and concentration limits set by safety committees).
Environmental: Studies in fish and other tests show propylparaben can affect wildlife and the environment, and regulatory reviews have noted possible environmental disruption.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Propylparaben

This ingredient may also be listed as:

propylparabenK713PROPYLPARABEN, PHARMACEUTICAL SECONDARY STANDARD; CERTIFIED REFERENCE MATERIALCS-0018518AK106260NCGC00090965-06NCGC00090965-07E216P1955ST075003T8305

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

Products Containing Propylparaben

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain Propylparaben or its alternative names.

Common Questions About Propylparaben

Can older babies safely use Propylparaben?

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

What are the confuse hormones risks of Propylparaben for older babies?

Acts like fake hormones in the body, confusing natural signals. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the hormones risks of Propylparaben for older babies?

May mess with natural hormone development in babies and children. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.

What are the fertility risks of Propylparaben 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 irritant risks of Propylparaben 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 Propylparaben 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 Propylparaben 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 banned risks of Propylparaben 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 environmental risks of Propylparaben 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 Propylparaben?

Propylparaben 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 Propylparaben?

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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