Should I Avoid dimethoxydiglycol During Pregnancy? | VeriMom
Reviewed by VeriMom Editorial Team · Last reviewed
ECHA regulatory hazard statements
- •H360FD
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Authoritative references used to score this ingredient.
Pregnancy-Safe Alternatives to dimethoxydiglycol | VeriMom
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FAQ
- Is dimethoxydiglycol safe during pregnancy?
- Diethylene glycol dimethyl ether (CAS 111-96-6, aka diglyme / dimethoxydiglycol) has a harmonised CLP classification for reproductive toxicity H360 (may damage fertility or the unborn child) / H360FD reported by ECHA; animal studies report testicular and fetal toxicity (prenatal developmental toxicity / fetal effects). These support a confirmed reproductive hazard (h=3). Mechanistic data show demonstrated reproductive/developmental effects in animals (m=2). For topical cosmetic use systemic exposure is expected to be measurable (solvent with dermal absorption potential), so exposure scoring is moderate (e=2). Sources: ECHA substance / registration and published prenatal studies.
- Is dimethoxydiglycol safe while breastfeeding?
- Harmonised CLP H360 indicates reproductive toxicity including effects on fertility and the unborn; animal data demonstrate systemic reproductive toxicity. Given systemic toxicity and documented capacity to cause reproductive effects after systemic exposure, breastfeeding is a concern because the chemical is bioavailable and could transfer to milk (exposure moderate for dermal use). No high-quality human lactation studies were found; conclusions rely on harmonised classification and animal data.
- Is dimethoxydiglycol safe for baby skin?
- Hazard and mechanism scores follow the harmonised classification and animal reproductive data (h=3, m=2). Absorption/exposure is increased for infants (immature barrier and higher surface-area-to-weight); because adult topical use produces measurable systemic exposure (e=2), raise baby skin exposure by +1 → e=3. Therefore use on infant (0–3 yr) skin is of high concern.
- How does VeriMom score dimethoxydiglycol?
- VeriMom scores dimethoxydiglycol at 13/100 (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 dimethoxydiglycol?
- See our curated list of pregnancy-safe alternatives to dimethoxydiglycol 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.