Is sec-butyl alcohol safe during pregnancy?

Pregnancy-Safe Alternatives to sec-butyl alcohol | VeriMom

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See also

• Is sec-butyl alcohol safe for babies?
• Should I avoid sec-butyl alcohol during pregnancy?
• What are pregnancy-safe alternatives to sec-butyl alcohol?

Frequently asked questions

Is sec-butyl alcohol safe during pregnancy?

ECHA lists butan-2-ol (sec‑butyl alcohol, CAS 78-92-2) with a harmonised classification that includes H361 (“Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child”), and REACH/EPA dossiers report multigeneration and developmental studies in rats (two‑generation and developmental screens) that led to concern. These authoritative classifications and animal data support h=2. Mechanistic data for specific endocrine disruption are limited (m=1). Dermal/topical absorption is possible but generally low for small alcohol solvents in cosmetic use (e=1). ([echa.europa.eu](https://echa.europa.eu/brief-profile/-/briefprofile/100.001.053?utm_source=openai))

Is sec-butyl alcohol safe while breastfeeding?

Harmonised H361 raises concern for reproductive toxicity that is relevant to breastfeeding exposure. There is limited mechanistic evidence specific to lactational transfer, so m=1. Dermal absorption from cosmetic use is low but measurable; therefore e=1. Key regulatory sources and toxicology dossiers note reproductive/developmental findings. ([echa.europa.eu](https://echa.europa.eu/brief-profile/-/briefprofile/100.001.053?utm_source=openai))

Is sec-butyl alcohol safe for baby skin?

Hazard (h=2) follows the harmonised H361 classification and animal reproductive data (same basis as adult). Mechanistic evidence for infant‑specific effects is limited (m=1). Exposure score increased by +1 for baby skin (e=2) because infant skin has higher surface‑area‑to‑weight and an immature barrier, so measurable dermal absorption of a small alcohol solvent is more likely in 0–3‑year olds. ([echa.europa.eu](https://echa.europa.eu/brief-profile/-/briefprofile/100.001.053?utm_source=openai))

How does VeriMom score sec-butyl alcohol?

VeriMom scores sec-butyl alcohol 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 sec-butyl alcohol?

See our curated list of pregnancy-safe alternatives to sec-butyl alcohol based on similar function and a no-known-risks safety band.