Is Decyl Glucoside Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Decyl Glucoside is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Decyl Glucoside on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Burt's Bees Baby Shampoo & Wash, Honest Company Shampoo + Body Wash, EWG Verified baby cleansers.
TL;DR: Decyl Glucoside is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Decyl Glucoside: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Burt's Bees Baby Shampoo & Wash, Honest Company Shampoo + Body Wash, EWG Verified baby cleansers, Attitude Baby Shampoo |
What is Decyl Glucoside?
Decyl glucoside is a mild, non-ionic surfactant made by combining glucose (from starch) with decanol (from coconut oil). It belongs to the alkyl polyglucoside (APG) family, which is noted for excellent biodegradability and gentleness.
Why is Decyl Glucoside used in personal-care products?
Used as a primary surfactant in gentle, natural, and baby formulations where minimal skin irritation is paramount. It also stabilizes foam and is compatible with a wide range of other cosmetic ingredients.
What regulators have flagged about Decyl Glucoside
Decyl glucoside is among the safest cosmetic surfactants available. It has an excellent safety profile, with very low irritation and sensitization potential. It is approved for use in certified organic cosmetics (COSMOS, ECOCERT). No carcinogenicity, endocrine disruption, or systemic toxicity concerns have been identified. Rare contact allergic reactions have been documented but are extremely uncommon.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Decyl Glucoside with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from Decyl Glucoside →
Audited products that don't contain Decyl Glucoside.
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Decyl Glucoside and pregnancy: common questions
Is Decyl Glucoside banned anywhere?
Decyl Glucoside is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
Should I avoid Decyl Glucoside during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What products contain Decyl Glucoside?
Commonly found in Burt's Bees Baby Shampoo & Wash, Honest Company Shampoo + Body Wash, EWG Verified baby cleansers, Attitude Baby Shampoo. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Decyl Glucoside.
What can I use instead of Decyl Glucoside?
Lauryl glucoside or coco-glucoside as structurally similar glucoside alternatives; all are in the same APG family. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Decyl Glucoside or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- Safety Assessment of Alkyl Glucosides — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Decyl Glucoside — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.