What precautions should I know about, especially regarding children and sensitive skin?

Camphor-based balms are safe for most adults when used as directed, but a few rules genuinely matter with this type of product.

• Children: camphor vapour can be too strong for small children. Do not apply this balsam near the face or nose of infants and young children, and store the tube where children cannot reach it. This is an adult-oriented product.
• Broken or irritated skin: never apply it to cuts, scrapes, rashes or freshly irritated areas — camphor on damaged skin can sting sharply and worsen irritation.
• Eyes and mucous membranes: avoid the eye area, lips, nostrils and other mucous membranes. If the balm gets into your eyes, rinse with plenty of lukewarm water. Because residue on the fingers is the most common route of accidental contact, wash your hands immediately after every application.
• Sensitive skin: do a patch test on a small area first and begin with a thin layer; if you notice burning that keeps intensifying, redness that spreads, or itching, remove the balm with a cloth and a mild oil or cleanser — water alone spreads warming ingredients poorly — and discontinue use.
• Storage: keep the tube tightly closed at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, so the volatile camphor and aromatic components do not evaporate over time.