Protease

Protease molecular structure

6-12 month old babiesSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Can older babies use Protease?

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

ℹ️General Overview

For infants and babies (6–12 months), protease can cause allergic reactions and may irritate sensitive skin. While it is not generally shown to cause cancer or developmental harm, the allergy risk is the main concern for little ones.

What to Do

Try to avoid products that list Protease on the label for your baby. If a product containing this enzyme is recommended by a clinician or used for a short, specific treatment, do a small patch test on a tiny area of the baby's forearm and wait 24–48 hours. Use only on intact skin, keep it away from the face and diaper area, and watch closely for any redness, rash, swelling, or breathing changes. If you see those signs, stop use and contact your pediatrician.

⚠️Warnings

Watch for itching, redness, hives, swelling, or trouble breathing — these are signs of an allergic reaction reported in peer‑reviewed studies. Also note that some product verification programs restrict use of this ingredient unless the maker shows safety data, and the FDA only allows limited uses in food, which does not mean it is automatically safe on a baby's skin.

Confidence: HIGH

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Immune system: Peer-reviewed studies show this protease acts as a human allergen and can trigger immune reactions. That means some people — including children with sensitive skin — could have allergic responses after using products that contain it.
Irritant: Because the ingredient can cause allergic reactions in people, it can also lead to skin redness, itching, or rashes when applied to the skin. This risk is supported by peer-reviewed literature reporting strong evidence of human allergen effects.
Eczema: Allergic or immune reactions to this protease can trigger or make eczema and similar skin conditions worse. Peer-reviewed sources note strong allergen evidence, which makes flare-ups more likely for children with eczema-prone skin.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Protease

This ingredient may also be listed as:

proteasePROTEASEBACILLUS SUBTILIS NEUTRAL PROTEASEA.S. 1.398BACTERIAL PROTEASE

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

Common Questions About Protease

Can older babies safely use Protease?

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

What are the immune system risks of Protease 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 irritant risks of Protease 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 Protease 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 products contain Protease?

Protease 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 Protease?

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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