For babies 6–12 months (infants and young babies), this ingredient is generally low risk when it’s used in small amounts in finished products. But it can sometimes irritate sensitive skin or eyes and may help other things soak in through the skin, so we should be careful with baby skin.
Use products made for babies or labeled safe for infants. Prefer rinse‑off products (bath products, baby washes) over leave‑on lotions when possible. If you must use a lotion or wipe, pick one from a reputable brand and avoid applying to broken, red, or inflamed skin. Do a small patch test on a thigh or forearm and wait 24 hours — if you see redness, swelling, or a rash, stop use. Stop use and check with your pediatrician if you notice ongoing redness, blistering, or spreading rash.
Watch for skin or eye irritation (redness, stinging, rash). The warning about irritation and increased skin absorption comes from safety reviews and studies (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), some animal studies and peer‑reviewed literature, and regulatory notes from the European Chemicals Agency and Environment Canada. Also note that some product programs restrict use of this ingredient unless the maker provides safety data — that means manufacturers are expected to show it’s safe at the levels they use. Avoid using products with this ingredient on newborns or on skin that is broken or already irritated.
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This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Sodium Levulinate or its alternative names.
Yes, Sodium Levulinate is generally considered safe for 6-12 month old babies based on current research.
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
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.
Could weaken or confuse immune system. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Some studies link this to future fertility or reproductive issues. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Sodium Levulinate 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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