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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

Q: My child ate lotion. Is lotion toxic?

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

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.

This call is free and confidential.

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.