Parabens

In short: Parabens are preservatives in cosmetics, for example methylparaben or propylparaben. They stop creams from spoiling.

In more detail: The EU limits them: single esters to 0.4 %, mixtures to 0.8 %, propyl and butyl paraben together to 0.14 %. In leave-on products for the nappy area of infants, propyl and butyl paraben are banned. Methyl and ethyl paraben are considered well studied and well tolerated; longer-chain ones are suspected of having hormone-like effects.

Our context: The product scanner distinguishes methyl/ethyl paraben (small deduction) from propyl/butyl paraben (larger deduction).

In Depth

• Recognising: Names end in “-paraben”.
• Alternatives: phenoxyethanol, benzoic acid, sorbic acid, ethylhexylglycerin. They are also approved and can irritate skin.
• Without preservatives: Water-containing products always need protection. Oil-based, anhydrous products do not.
• Allergies: True paraben allergies are rare.

See also: INCI: reading cosmetic ingredients, Formaldehyde releasers and isothiazolinones