Is Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine is banned in 1 country/region (including European Union), though the FDA still allows it in the US. 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 Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: hair straightening treatment.
TL;DR: Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | high |
| Where it shows up | hair straightening treatment |
What is Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine?
Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine is a preservative that slowly releases formaldehyde to kill bacteria in water-based personal-care products.
Why is Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine used in personal-care products?
It extends shelf life cheaply by releasing low levels of formaldehyde over time.
What regulators have flagged about Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine
Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen and a common skin sensitizer. The EU restricts formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and requires warning labels; Washington State is phasing them out, while they remain unrestricted federally in the US.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine 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 Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine →
Audited products that don't contain Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine.
As an Amazon Associate, BannedPantry earns from qualifying purchases. This never influences our ratings — see Affiliate Disclosure.
Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine and pregnancy: common questions
Is Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine banned anywhere?
Yes. Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine is banned in European Union. The FDA still allows it in the US.
Should I avoid Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine 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 Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine?
Commonly found in hair straightening treatment. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine.
What can I use instead of Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine?
Choose 'formaldehyde-free' products and EU-compliant brands; look for preservatives like sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate. BannedPantry flags formaldehyde releasers on the INCI list. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- Formaldehyde releasers in common personal-care products — Silent Spring Institute
- Washington Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act implementation — Toxic-Free Future
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II (prohibited substances) — EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.