Ingredient

Sodium Perborate

Sodium Perborate is flagged for pregnancy, trying to conceive, breastfeeding, postpartum, PCOS and general use. The concern behind the strongest flag is known teratogen and fetal development.

By Team TruvaLast checked

Verdict by profile

Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.

Strongest verdict
Not Recommended
Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
Profiles flagged
6 of 6
Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
Irritancy
4 of 5
Higher means more likely to sting or redden
PregnancyAVOID

Sodium Perborate and pregnancy

Not Recommended

Sodium perborate is an oxidizing agent that releases hydrogen peroxide and contains boron. It is used in some hair bleaching products, dental whitening treatments, and as an antimicrobial agent. The compound breaks down to release active oxygen and borate. ECHA has classified sodium perborate as toxic to reproduction (Category 1B), meaning there is sufficient evidence of developmental toxicity and effects on fertility. Animal studies have shown that boron compounds can cross the placental barrier and cause fetal developmental abnormalities, particularly affecting the skeletal system and cardiovascular development. While the evidence primarily comes from oral exposure studies, the potential for systemic absorption through skin, especially damaged skin or mucous membranes, creates a significant concern. ACOG recommends avoiding all products classified as reproductive toxicants during pregnancy. The EU Cosmetics Regulation severely restricts sodium perborate use and prohibits it entirely in products intended for children. Given the clear classification as a reproductive toxicant by ECHA and the potential for systemic absorption, obstetricians and dermatologists universally recommend avoiding products containing sodium perborate during pregnancy. This includes hair bleaching products and certain dental treatments that may contain this ingredient.

BreastfeedingAVOID

Sodium Perborate and breastfeeding

Not Recommended

Sodium perborate is an oxidizing agent classified by ECHA as a reproductive toxicant. While specific studies on breast milk transfer are limited, boron compounds can be absorbed systemically and are known to distribute to various body tissues. The concern for breastfeeding women stems from sodium perborate's classification as toxic to reproduction and the potential for boron to be excreted in breast milk. Boron is an essential trace element, but excessive exposure can be harmful to infants whose regulatory systems are immature. The oxidizing properties of the compound also raise concerns about potential effects on infant development if transferred through milk. Given ECHA's reproductive toxicity classification and the precautionary principle, most lactation consultants and dermatologists recommend avoiding products containing sodium perborate during breastfeeding. The AAD suggests postponing non-essential cosmetic treatments containing this ingredient until after weaning. If exposure occurs, thoroughly wash the area and wait several hours before breastfeeding.

PostpartumCAUTION

Sodium Perborate and postpartum

Caution Advised

Sodium perborate is an oxidizing agent used in hair bleaching and dental products. For postpartum women not breastfeeding, the primary concerns are related to skin irritation and the ingredient's classification as a reproductive toxicant for those who may become pregnant again. While not breastfeeding, postpartum skin may be more sensitive due to hormonal changes, making irritation from sodium perborate more likely. The ingredient can cause burns, allergic reactions, and significant skin irritation. Women planning future pregnancies should be aware of its reproductive toxicity classification and may choose to avoid it as a precautionary measure.

Trying to ConceiveAVOID

Sodium Perborate and trying to conceive

Not Recommended

Sodium perborate is classified by ECHA as toxic to reproduction (Category 1B), with evidence of effects on fertility and developmental toxicity. For women trying to conceive, this classification is particularly relevant. Animal studies have shown that boron compounds, including sodium perborate, can affect reproductive organs and fertility parameters. While human data is more limited, the reproductive toxicity classification indicates sufficient concern. Fertility specialists recommend that women adopt pregnancy-safe practices before conception, which includes avoiding all products classified as reproductive toxicants. The potential effects on early embryonic development make this ingredient inappropriate for use when trying to conceive.

PCOSCAUTION

Sodium Perborate and PCOS

Caution Advised

Sodium perborate is an oxidizing agent containing boron, which has been studied for potential endocrine-disrupting effects. While it doesn't directly affect androgen levels, boron compounds can influence steroid hormone metabolism. For women with PCOS, the endocrine-disrupting potential of boron-containing compounds raises some concern. PCOS involves hormonal imbalances, and introducing compounds that may affect hormone metabolism could theoretically impact the condition. However, the evidence is limited, and effects would likely only occur with significant systemic absorption. Given ECHA's reproductive toxicity classification and potential endocrine effects, dermatologists often recommend that women with PCOS—particularly those trying to conceive or who may become pregnant—choose alternative products. The irritant properties also make it less suitable for PCOS patients who may have sensitive, acne-prone skin.

General UseCAUTION

Sodium Perborate and general use

Caution Advised

Sodium perborate is an oxidizing agent that decomposes in water to release hydrogen peroxide and borate. It is used in hair bleaching products, dental whiteners, and some cosmetic formulations for its bleaching and antimicrobial properties. The compound is more stable than hydrogen peroxide alone, which is why it's sometimes preferred in formulations. ECHA has classified sodium perborate as toxic to reproduction (Category 1B) and as a skin and respiratory irritant. The ingredient can cause burns, severe skin irritation, eye damage, and allergic reactions. It is particularly hazardous if inhaled or ingested. The boron component raises concerns about potential endocrine disruption and effects on reproductive health. People with sensitive skin, respiratory conditions, or boron sensitivity should avoid products containing this ingredient. The EU Cosmetics Regulation heavily restricts sodium perborate use, prohibiting it in products for children under 3 and limiting concentrations in other applications. Products must carry specific warnings about not ingesting or inhaling the compound. In the US, the FDA allows its use in cosmetics but manufacturers must ensure safety. Many cosmetic companies have moved away from sodium perborate in favor of safer alternatives like hydrogen peroxide or enzymatic lightening agents.

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Provenance

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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