Is Phenoxyethanol Safe During Pregnancy?

Self-care sessions are never complete without soothing skin treatments, rejuvenating face masks, or spritzing your body with alluring fragrances. You deserve a little me-time, especially since you’re doing this amazing thing, such as creating life! Indulge in some R&R without adding any risk to your baby’s health by avoiding products with phenoxyethanol. Shop smart and be knowledgeable about the risks of phenoxyethanol on your body during pregnancy.

 

Is Phenoxyethanol Safe During Pregnancy?  

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used in cosmetic products. This compound provides aroma for various products. 

Over use of phenoxyethanol is not safe, since it can cause various health impacts. Embrace natural scents in clean health and beauty products

We understand the importance of taking care of your body, especially during pregnancy. Here are the risks that might come with high doses of phenoxyethanol [1]: 

  • Disrupted ovarian function [2]

  • Weight gain

  • Skin irritation

  • Lung and liver irritation

  • Diarrhea in pregnant women

During pregnancy, phenoxyethanol should be avoided and is included in our recommended list of chemicals to avoid while pregnant.

Let’s Go On A Cosmetic Scavenger Hunt!

Relive the rush of a childhood scavenger hunt, because we’re going on one now. Even better, we’re looking for clues in your beauty routine that will help increase your chances of getting pregnant! 

First clue: we need to avoid products that contain phenoxyethanol. Follow this step and you will be closer to a healthy lifestyle and pregnancy. 

Sounds simple enough, super sleuth? Well check out your next clue. 

Second clue: Be aware of what is safe and what isn’t. 

You can find phenoxyethanol listed as any of the following:

  • Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether

  • Phenoxytolarosol

  • Dowanol EP / EPH

  • Protectol PE

  • Emery 6705

  • Rose ether

  • 1-Hydroxy-2-phenoxyethane

  • β-hydroxyethyl phenyl ether

  • Phenyl cellosolve

Due to the risks that come with phenoxyethanol, we recommend avoiding this toxic chemical. 

You’re Getting Closer to the Prize

Now that you know WHAT to look for, you need to know WHERE to find it. Awareness is essential. 

Browse the labels of these common household items to spot phenoxyethanol [3]: 

  • Rinse-off, leave-on cosmetics

  • Fragrance mixtures

  • Moisturizers

  • Sunscreens

  • Shampoos and conditioners

  • Lip balms 

  • Body lotions

  • Deodorants

Nab Some Bonus Points

You have done a great job following the clues. Now that you are aware of what products contain this preservative, it’s time to get an upgrade. 

Glam up with these phenoxyethanol alternatives:

Time for the Prize

Million Marker has your back! Not only are you rewarded with information, but we also provide a list of Approved Products that will make your search easier. 

Face massages, skincare, and the right hair products can include safe and healthy ingredients now! You can also get tested with Million Marker’s Detect & Detox Test Kit + Lifestyle Audit and find out about your exposure to toxic chemicals.

 

Sources:

[1] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-58170-9
[2] https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/full/10.1289/ehp.1206103 
[3] https://www.forceofnatureclean.com/chemical-free-living-phenoxyethanol/