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HIGH RISK

Should I Avoid caffeic acid During Pregnancy? | VeriMom

Animal reproductive/developmental study in mice reported effects on embryo implantation at 5 and 150 mg/kg/day and reduced fetal weight at 150 mg/kg/day (NOAEL 0.15 mg/kg/day), supporting a suspected reproductive hazard (animal evidence). ([pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30366071/)) Supplier safety data sheets also state classification as Repr. Cat.2 (H361d), though these appear to be company/ SDS classifications rather than a confirmed harmonised CLP entry. ([static.cymitquimica.com](https://static.cymitquimica.com/products/54/pdf/sds-BIB6021.pdf?utm_source=openai))

ECHA regulatory hazard statements

  • H361

What to use instead

Pregnancy-safe ingredients that serve a similar function:

FAQ

Is caffeic acid safe during pregnancy?
Animal reproductive/developmental study in mice reported effects on embryo implantation at 5 and 150 mg/kg/day and reduced fetal weight at 150 mg/kg/day (NOAEL 0.15 mg/kg/day), supporting a suspected reproductive hazard (animal evidence). ([pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30366071/)) Supplier safety data sheets also state classification as Repr. Cat.2 (H361d), though these appear to be company/ SDS classifications rather than a confirmed harmonised CLP entry. ([static.cymitquimica.com](https://static.cymitquimica.com/products/54/pdf/sds-BIB6021.pdf?utm_source=openai))
Is caffeic acid safe while breastfeeding?
No human lactation data located; animal reproductive/developmental data indicate reproductive/developmental effects, so breastfeeding is assigned the same hazard/ mechanism tier as pregnancy in the absence of breastfeeding-specific data. Topical cosmetic use is expected to give low but measurable systemic exposure in adults. ([pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30366071/))
Is caffeic acid safe for baby skin?
Hazard and mechanism are driven by the mouse developmental study (suspected reproductive/developmental effects). Per your rules, exposure score is increased by +1 for baby skin versus adult because caffeic acid has measurable absorption potential when systemically bioavailable; therefore exposure for 0–3 yr skin is moderate. No infant-specific toxicity studies were found. ([pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30366071/))
How does VeriMom score caffeic acid?
VeriMom scores caffeic acid at 20/100 (high risk) based on EU CosIng status, ECHA hazard classifications, and peer-reviewed PubMed studies. Our scoring pipeline is fully transparent.
What are pregnancy-safe alternatives to caffeic acid?
See our curated list of pregnancy-safe alternatives to caffeic acid based on similar function and a no-known-risks safety band.

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Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Safety scores are based on publicly available data and may not reflect all risks. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

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