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HIGH RISK

Should I Avoid methoxyethyl acrylate During Pregnancy? | VeriMom

EU harmonised classification (Annex VI/CLP, Delegated Regulation 2020/1182) lists 2‑methoxyethyl acrylate with H360FD (may damage fertility and the unborn child), which by your scoring rules requires h=3. The reproductive hazard is supported by regulatory and literature evidence that glycol‑ether metabolites (e.g. 2‑methoxyethanol) cause reproductive/developmental effects in animal studies and occupational epidemiology, indicating a demonstrated mechanism via toxic metabolites. Dermal and inhalation uptake is documented for glycol ethers and acrylate monomers, so moderate exposure (e=2) is appropriate for topical use unless formulation/impurity data show otherwise.

ECHA regulatory hazard statements

  • H360FD

What to use instead

Pregnancy-safe ingredients that serve a similar function:

FAQ

Is methoxyethyl acrylate safe during pregnancy?
EU harmonised classification (Annex VI/CLP, Delegated Regulation 2020/1182) lists 2‑methoxyethyl acrylate with H360FD (may damage fertility and the unborn child), which by your scoring rules requires h=3. The reproductive hazard is supported by regulatory and literature evidence that glycol‑ether metabolites (e.g. 2‑methoxyethanol) cause reproductive/developmental effects in animal studies and occupational epidemiology, indicating a demonstrated mechanism via toxic metabolites. Dermal and inhalation uptake is documented for glycol ethers and acrylate monomers, so moderate exposure (e=2) is appropriate for topical use unless formulation/impurity data show otherwise.
Is methoxyethyl acrylate safe while breastfeeding?
Harmonised CLP classification H360FD applies irrespective of route and signals potential for effects to reproduction and the developing offspring; metabolic conversion to 2‑methoxyethanol supports a demonstrated mechanism (m=2). Dermal absorption and systemic availability have been reported for glycol ethers/monomeric acrylates, so maternal topical exposure could result in systemic exposure (e=2); transfer in breastmilk is plausible for small polar metabolites though breastmilk‑specific data are lacking.
Is methoxyethyl acrylate safe for baby skin?
Hazard remains high (h=3) because of the harmonised H360FD classification. Mechanistic concern is the same (metabolic formation of 2‑methoxyethanol). Exposure score is increased by +1 for infants (per your rules) because baby skin has higher absorption and the parent compound/ metabolites are systemically available; therefore exposure is high (e=3) for 0–3 yr when present on skin in monomeric form.
How does VeriMom score methoxyethyl acrylate?
VeriMom scores methoxyethyl acrylate 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 methoxyethyl acrylate?
See our curated list of pregnancy-safe alternatives to methoxyethyl acrylate 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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