Is Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate 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 Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: conditioner, lotion, liquid soap.
TL;DR: Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | high |
| Where it shows up | conditioner, lotion, liquid soap |
What is Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate?
Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate is a preservative that slowly releases formaldehyde to kill bacteria in water-based personal-care products.
Why is Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate used in personal-care products?
It extends shelf life cheaply by releasing low levels of formaldehyde over time.
What regulators have flagged about Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate
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 Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate 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 Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate →
Audited products that don't contain Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate.
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Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate and pregnancy: common questions
Is Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate banned anywhere?
Yes. Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate is banned in European Union. The FDA still allows it in the US.
Should I avoid Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate 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 Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate?
Commonly found in conditioner, lotion, liquid soap. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate.
What can I use instead of Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate?
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 Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate 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.