Is Phenoxyethanol Safe for Babies? What the Science Says
Is phenoxyethanol in baby cosmetics safe? See the SCCS and ANSM positions plus what to know when choosing products for babies and young children.
Why this matters to parents of babies
A baby's skin is thinner and more permeable, and their metabolic pathways are still immature. Absorbed ingredients can reach the bloodstream more readily. That's why a precautionary approach when choosing products for babies is so important.
The SCCS position
In its opinion SCCS/1575/16 from 2016, the SCCS concluded that phenoxyethanol at up to 1% is safe for adults and children over 3 years of age. For children under 3, and infants in particular, the toxicological data was insufficient for a clear positive opinion. The SCCS did not identify a hazard - it identified a lack of sufficient data.
The response from national agencies
ANSM (France) recommended limiting the use of phenoxyethanol in products for babies, especially in nappy-area creams. The recommendation is not legally binding across all EU countries, but many companies voluntarily reformulated their baby products.
Which products may contain phenoxyethanol?
- Body creams and lotions for babies
- Nappy-area and barrier creams
- Baby shampoos and washes
- Wet wipes
- Bath liquids and soaps
How to check the ingredients
Look for the name Phenoxyethanol on the packaging. Use the PurScore ingredient encyclopaedia, where you'll find safety information with notes specific to babies. Also check adult cosmetics that come into contact with your child's skin.
Safer alternatives
Premium manufacturers use: Ethylhexylglycerin (a preservative booster), Sodium Benzoate + Potassium Sorbate (a good profile in products for children), Levulinic Acid + Sodium Levulinate (fermentation-derived), as well as anhydrous formulas with low water activity.
Practical tips
Choose products with a short INCI list. Natrue, COSMOS Organic and ECOCERT certifications guarantee rigorous safety standards. Healthy baby skin mainly needs moisture, not a long list of active ingredients. It's also worth regularly comparing ingredient lists in our cosmetics search.
This article is for informational purposes only. If in doubt, consult a paediatrician or a paediatric dermatologist.
FAQ
It is not legally banned, but the SCCS flagged insufficient data for children under 3 years of age. France (ANSM) recommended limiting its use. Many manufacturers have voluntarily phased it out.
Look for Phenoxyethanol on the INCI list. PurScore flags ingredients that warrant caution when used on babies.
Some wipes contain phenoxyethanol as a preservative. It's worth checking the INCI list - many premium manufacturers switched to alternative preservation systems after the ANSM recommendations.
According to opinion SCCS/1575/16, phenoxyethanol at up to 1% is safe for children over 3 years of age and for adults. For younger children, a precautionary approach is advised.
Check products
Looking for cosmetics related to this topic? Compare ingredients and prices on PurScore.