Propylparaben
Propylparaben is a preservative in cosmetics. The EU limits it more strictly than methylparaben, and bans it in leave-on products for the nappy area of children under three.
What it is
It appears in creams, lotions, shampoos and make-up. On labels it appears as propylparaben or propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate.
How IngrediScan rates it
These levels come from the fixed rules in the IngrediScan app. A low level means the rules found little or no concern for that profile. It does not mean the ingredient is safe for everyone.
| Profile | Food | Skin (cosmetics) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | Medium | Medium |
| Child | Medium | Medium |
| Infant | Medium | Medium |
| Dog | No concern found | No concern found |
| Cat | No concern found | No concern found |
The EU safety committee (SCCS) keeps propyl and butyl parabens under watch for hormone-like effects, and the EU set a lower limit for them. For skin use the app is more cautious here than for methylparaben.
Basis of the ratings: limited or mixed data, errs on safety.
Possible concerns: Endocrine-disrupting.
The app's rationale (exact text)
- Adult (food), Child (food), Infant (food): SCCS opinions note endocrine-activity signals with hedged evidence; precautionary Medium for human food presence.
- Adult (skin), Child (skin), Infant (skin): Propyl and butyl parabens sit under Annex V 0.14 percent with an SCCS endocrine watch.
Rules and use
In cosmetics, propylparaben and butylparaben together may not exceed 0.14 %. Leave-on products for the nappy area of children under three years must not contain them. Five other parabens (isopropyl, isobutyl, phenyl, benzyl and pentyl) are banned (Regulation (EU) No 358/2014).
Read the guide: How to read an ingredient label
Sources
- SCCS: opinion on butylparaben, children's exposure
- SCCS 2021: opinion on octocrylene (SCCS/1627/21)
- SCCS 2021: opinion on homosalate (SCCS/1622/20)
Related ingredients
The assessment is for information only. It does not replace the manufacturer's label or advice from a doctor or vet. Text recognition (OCR) can miss part of a label. No result does not mean the product is safe.