Parabens
INCI: Methylparaben, Ethylparaben (and related)
Also known as: Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben
Last updated:
Parabens are a family of preservatives used for decades in cosmetics. Their status varies sharply by individual paraben: methylparaben and ethylparaben remain permitted in the EU at up to 0.4% individually and 0.8% in mixtures (Annex V #12). Propylparaben and butylparaben were restricted by Commission Regulation (EU) No 358/2014 to 0.14% in mixtures. Isopropyl-, isobutyl-, phenyl-, benzyl-, and pentylparaben were banned outright in EU cosmetics by Commission Regulation (EU) No 358/2014.
Regulatory status by market
| Market | Status | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Union | Restricted | Methyl/ethylparaben max 0.4% single, 0.8% mixture. Propyl/butyl max 0.14% mixture. Iso-/phenyl-/benzyl-/pentyl banned. | Annex V #12; Commission Regulation 358/2014 |
| United Kingdom | Restricted | Mirrors EU restrictions | UK Cosmetics Regulation |
| United States | Permitted | No FDA concentration limit on individual parabens in cosmetics | FDA position; CIR review |
| Canada | Restricted | Concentration limits on Hotlist | Health Canada Hotlist |
Safety profile
The SCCS has issued multiple opinions on parabens (most recently SCCS/1514/13 and subsequent updates), concluding that methylparaben and ethylparaben are safe at current limits. Endocrine-disruption concerns around propyl- and butylparaben drove the EU's 2014 restrictions. CIR and FDA continue to consider parabens safe for cosmetic use at current concentrations in the US.
Common uses
- Preservative system in creams, lotions, and emulsions
- Mascaras and cream products
- Wide range of personal care formats
Primary sources
Regulatory status is current to the "Last updated" date above. Always verify against the regulator's authoritative publication for the specific market and product category before relying on this summary for compliance decisions.
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