Glycerol

adultsSkin contact product

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Is this safe for adults to use Glycerol?

YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 0 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Glycerol is generally considered safe for adults when used in topical products. Adults generally have higher tolerance.

ℹ️General Overview

For adults, glycerol (glycerin) used on the skin is usually safe. It helps keep skin hydrated and is commonly found in lotions and creams. A related form called “glycerol formal” has a regulatory note about possible reproductive or developmental effects, but for most adult use this is low concern.

What to Do

Use products that contain glycerol as directed. If you have sensitive skin, test a small area first. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant, talk with your healthcare provider before using products that list “glycerol formal” or similar names.

⚠️Warnings

A European chemicals regulator (European Chemicals Agency) has flagged a possible reproductive or developmental concern for a related form called glycerol formal—this is the source of the warning. Watch for skin irritation or allergic reaction (redness, itching). Avoid high-concentration or industrial products that list glycerol formal, and check product ingredient lists. If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, discuss use with your clinician and consider choosing products that list plain glycerol or glycerin instead.

Confidence: HIGH

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Fertility: The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) lists glycerol formal as a possible human reproductive or developmental toxin. That flag means the chemical may affect reproductive organs or future fertility with exposure, so it could be a real risk for people who are pregnant or planning to have children.
Brain Development: ECHA identifies glycerol formal as a possible developmental toxin. "Developmental" risks can include effects on how a child’s body and brain grow, so there is a potential risk to early brain development if exposure happens during pregnancy or early life.
Long-Term Risk: Because a regulatory agency has singled out glycerol formal for possible reproductive and developmental harm, there is concern that repeated or long-term use could lead to lasting health effects. This makes ongoing exposure a potential long-term risk.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Glycerol

This ingredient may also be listed as:

glicerol7919ABNSC-15827(1,3-DIOXACYCLOPENT-4-YL)METHANOLGLYCEROL FORMAL (MIXTURE OF 1,3-DIOXAN-5-OL AND HYDROXYMETHYLDIOXALANE)DS-6052NSC15827MFCD00003218CTK1G9981EBD40707AKOS015915141

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

Products Containing Glycerol

This ingredient is found in the following products:

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

Common Questions About Glycerol

Is this safe for adults to use Glycerol?

Yes, Glycerol is generally considered safe for adults based on current research.

What are the fertility risks of Glycerol for adults?

Some studies link this to future fertility or reproductive issues.

What are the brain development risks of Glycerol for adults?

Possible effects on early brain growth and mental development.

What are the long-term risk risks of Glycerol for adults?

Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure.

What products contain Glycerol?

Glycerol is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.

When can adults using products with Glycerol?

The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for adults. Use the age selector above to check other ages.

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