Safety guide

Which ingredients should children avoid in personal care?

Children have thinner skin and developing endocrine systems, making ingredient selection especially important. This guide covers the ingredients with the highest caution signals for child exposure.

Focus

Child exposure

Guide type

Evidence-backed

Common questions

Is phenoxyethanol safe for babies?

Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. The French ANSM issued a warning against its use in products for children under 3, particularly in diaper area products. Many pediatric dermatologists recommend caution.

What sunscreen is best for kids?

Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are widely recommended for children. They sit on the skin surface without significant absorption and have strong safety profiles.

What preservatives should I avoid in baby products?

Look to avoid parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben), MIT/CMIT (methylisothiazolinone), and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives like DMDM hydantoin in products used on young children.

Related ingredients

Fragrance

High concern

Composite fragrance terms reduce transparency and may hide sensitizers.

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BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE

High concern

2,6-Di-Tert-Butyl-4-Methylphenol is restricted in cosmetic products under Annex III of the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) 1223/2009.

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ALCOHOL

Moderate concern

EPA CPDat observed this chemical in 16385 composition records across product categories including Personal care, Construction and building materials, Furniture and furnishings.

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Niacinamide

Minor concern

EPA CPDat observed this chemical in 2264 composition records across product categories including Food and drug, Laboratory supplies, Personal care.

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PHENOXYETHANOL

Minor concern

2-Phenoxyethanol is listed in Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 (preservatives allowed in cosmetic products).

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