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Poison Center Helpline 1-800-222-1222

Not sure what to do? Have an urgent question?

If your child is having symptoms or you don't know the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

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My Child Ate Lotion

lotion
Lotion is Minimally toxic .

If your child ate a mouthful or less of non-medicated hand, face or body lotion give them a few sips of water and watch for loose stools or an upset stomach.

If your child swallowed medicated or prescription lotion, call IPC immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

What to know: Lotion

  • Lotion also includes hand cream, face cream, and body cream.

Toxicity Level

What are toxicity levels?

My child ate lotion. Is lotion toxic?

Lotion is minimally toxic in small amounts and can cause a mild laxative effect at worst.

Medicated lotions and creams (such as those for rashes, acne, athlete’s foot and hair removal) contain additional ingredients that may be toxic. If your child has ingested one of these, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222 for advice specific to your situation.

Symptoms of Poisoning

If your child ingested lotion, give them a few sips of water and monitor for an upset stomach and/or loose stools. If these symptoms develop or your child ate medicated lotion, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222.

Eye Exposure

  • Lotion may cause irritation if exposed to eyes.   

  • If your child got lotion in their eyes, rinse by pouring clean, lukewarm water across the affected eye(s) for 15 minutes.  

For more instructions, please see our page on eye exposure information.

Have an urgent question or need more help?

Don't hesitate to call IPC at

1-800-222-1222

This call is free and confidential.

Poison Center HelplineCalls are free and confidential.

  1. In Case of Emergency

    Call 911 if someone is unconscious or is having difficulty breathing.

  2. Remain Calm

    Most poison emergencies can be resolved quickly over the phone.

  3. Call the Helpline

    Call 1-800-222-1222 if you are concerned that you or someone else has been exposed to a potentially harmful substance.