VeriMomVeriMom
HIGH RISK

Should I Avoid methyl morpholine oxide During Pregnancy? | VeriMom

Reviewed by · Last reviewed

ECHA regulatory hazard statements

  • H361
  • H361F

What to use instead

Pregnancy-safe ingredients that serve a similar function:

Pregnancy-safe products to use instead

Products built around the safer ingredients above, scored "no known risks" or "low risk".

Sources & references

Authoritative references used to score this ingredient.

Pregnancy-Safe Alternatives to methyl morpholine oxide | VeriMom

IngredientsPregnancy-Safe Ingredients Database — 28,000+ Ingredients Rated

See also

FAQ

Is methyl morpholine oxide safe during pregnancy?
ECHA lists 4‑methylmorpholine 4‑oxide (N‑methylmorpholine N‑oxide; CAS 7529‑22‑8) with a harmonised CLP reproductive hazard H361f (suspected of damaging fertility), which supports a suspected reproductive hazard (h=2). A specific molecular mechanism for reproductive effects is not described in available dossiers, so mechanism is scored as theoretical/uncertain (m=1). For typical topical cosmetic use dermal exposure is low but measurable (hydrophilic substance, low logP), so adult exposure is scored low (e=1). Sources: ECHA classification and supplier/MSDS listings.
Is methyl morpholine oxide safe while breastfeeding?
Harmonised H361f (ECHA) applies to general reproductive/fertility concern and is the principal driver (h=2). No clear data on mammary/milk transfer or neonatal toxicity were found; mechanism remains uncharacterized (m=1). Given the compound's hydrophilicity and expected low dermal/systemic absorption from cosmetics, exposure via topical maternal use is judged low (e=1), but milk transfer data are lacking.
Is methyl morpholine oxide safe for baby skin?
Hazard remains driven by harmonised H361f → h=2. Mechanistic evidence is lacking (m=1). Because infant skin (0–3 yr) has higher surface‑area‑to‑weight and an immature barrier, exposure score is increased by +1 compared with adult (adult e=1 → baby e=2) where measurable dermal absorption is plausible. No infant‑specific toxicity or exposure studies were found.
How does VeriMom score methyl morpholine oxide?
VeriMom scores methyl morpholine oxide at 27/100 (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 methyl morpholine oxide?
See our curated list of pregnancy-safe alternatives to methyl morpholine oxide based on similar function and a no-known-risks safety band.

Check every label in 2 seconds

Get VeriMom free — scan any product and see the pregnancy safety score instantly.

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.

Get the full experience in the VeriMom app