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Preservative

Butyl 4-hydroxy­benzoate and its salts Propyl 4-hydroxy­benzoate and its salts

CAS 94-26-8/ 94-13-3/ 35285-69-9/ 36457-20-2/ 38566-94-8/ 84930-16-5
35

Safety score · 0–100

Caution

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

Butyl- and propyl-paraben (and their salts) — preservatives heavily restricted in the EU due to endocrine-disruption concerns. Allowed only at low caps and banned in leave-on products for young children.

Function

PRESERVATIVE

Skin benefits

  • Effective broad-spectrum preservatives
  • Active at low % vs broad microbe range

Known concerns

  • EU Annex V: butylparaben and propylparaben capped at 0.14% (sum)
  • Endocrine-disruption concerns
  • Banned in leave-on for under-3s nappy area
  • Skin sensitization in some users

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

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PROPYLPARABEN
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.