Ingredient
6-Aminocaproic Acid
6-Aminocaproic Acid is flagged for pregnancy. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body.
- Epsilon-Aminocaproic Acid
- EACA
- ε-Aminocaproic Acid
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Caution Advised
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 1 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 1 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
6-Aminocaproic Acid and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
6-Aminocaproic acid is an amino acid derivative that functions in cosmetics as an anti-inflammatory and soothing agent. It is better known as a pharmaceutical medication (brand name Amicar) used to prevent excessive bleeding, classified by the FDA as Pregnancy Category C for systemic use. The FDA's Category C classification for the pharmaceutical form indicates that animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no adequate human studies. When used systemically as a medication during pregnancy, it is prescribed only when benefits clearly outweigh risks. While topical cosmetic use involves much lower systemic exposure than oral medication, specific safety data for topical use during pregnancy is lacking. Due to the pharmaceutical form's Category C classification and the lack of specific data on topical cosmetic use during pregnancy, many healthcare providers recommend a cautious approach. While the risk from topical cosmetic use is likely much lower than from systemic medication, pregnant women may prefer to avoid this ingredient or consult their healthcare provider, especially during the first trimester.
6-Aminocaproic Acid and breastfeeding
Safe to Use
Information on topical 6-aminocaproic acid use during breastfeeding is limited. The pharmaceutical form can be used during breastfeeding when medically necessary, as it is not strongly associated with adverse effects in breastfed infants, though data is limited. Topical cosmetic use involves significantly lower systemic absorption than oral medication, and the small amounts used in cosmetics are unlikely to result in meaningful transfer to breast milk. There is no specific evidence of concern for breastfed infants from maternal cosmetic use. While topical use is likely safe, women who prefer to be very cautious during breastfeeding may choose alternative soothing ingredients. However, the risk from cosmetic topical use appears to be minimal.
6-Aminocaproic Acid and postpartum
Safe to Use
For postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, 6-aminocaproic acid in cosmetics presents no specific concerns. Its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties may be beneficial for managing postpartum skin sensitivity. The ingredient can help reduce redness and irritation that some women experience due to hormonal changes after pregnancy. It is well-tolerated and safe for use in this population.
6-Aminocaproic Acid and trying to conceive
Safe to Use
There is no evidence that topical cosmetic use of 6-aminocaproic acid affects fertility or interferes with conception. The compound does not have hormonal activity that would impact reproductive function. Women trying to conceive may choose to discontinue use as a precautionary measure since they could become pregnant at any time, and the ingredient's pregnancy safety data is limited. However, there is no known mechanism by which cosmetic topical use would affect fertility or early pregnancy.
6-Aminocaproic Acid and PCOS
Safe to Use
6-Aminocaproic acid has no hormonal activity and does not interact with PCOS or affect androgen levels, insulin sensitivity, or other metabolic factors associated with the condition. Its anti-inflammatory properties may actually be beneficial for women with PCOS who experience inflammatory skin conditions. There is no evidence that it worsens PCOS symptoms or interferes with PCOS treatments. Women with PCOS can safely use products containing this ingredient without concern for hormonal effects or condition interactions.
6-Aminocaproic Acid and general use
Safe to Use
For the general population, 6-aminocaproic acid is safe and well-tolerated in cosmetic products. It serves as an effective soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredient that can help reduce skin redness and sensitivity. The compound has a long history of safe use as a pharmaceutical agent, and its use in cosmetics at lower concentrations has not been associated with significant adverse effects. It is generally non-irritating and suitable for most skin types. The primary benefit is its ability to calm irritated skin and reduce inflammatory responses, making it useful in products designed for sensitive or reactive skin. Overall safety profile is favorable for cosmetic use.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
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Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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