Long-chain paraben effective against fungi. The EU holds a 0.14% cap due to potential endocrine activity.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Data on hormonal activity at low concentrations contradict each other. For leave-on products formulators prefer shorter parabens.
Butylparaben is the ester of n-butyl alcohol and para-hydroxybenzoic acid. One of the long-chain parabens, an effective preservative against yeasts and moulds. Mechanism. Inhibits microorganisms via membrane disruption and suppression of ATP-dependent processes in the bacterial cell. Broader and stronger than short-chain methyl- and ethylparaben, especially against Aspergillus and Candida. Where applied. Creams, lotions, shampoos, hygiene products, prescription ointments, injectables. EU concentration up to 0.14% per EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex V, entry 12; total parabens in one product up to 0.8%. In Spain less common in dermocosmetics than 15 years ago – most brands moved to short-chain parabens or alternatives. Controversies and regulation. SCCS in 2011 opined on a possible weak estrogen-like in vitro activity of long-chain parabens (butyl-, propylparaben). The EU then capped concentrations (from 0.4% to 0.14% individually and 0.8% combined). Ban on nappy-area products since 2014 (EU Regulation 358/2014). In the US (FDA) and Australia (TGA) the stance is softer – no formal limits, but big brands voluntarily reformulate. Endocrine evidence base. Not confirmed in human RCTs at real-life concentrations. Darbre 2004 (parabens detected in breast tumour tissue) is methodologically weak; ECHA, EFSA, and EU SCCS consensus is no proven causal link with breast cancer. Parabens remain approved preservatives, but with conservative limits. Safety. Contact allergy is rare (<0.5% patch tests) – less than bronopol or MIT/MCI. Does not photosensitise. Non-comedogenic. Pregnancy – use with caution. EU and AEMPS cap 0.14% stays. Banned in nappy-area products under 6 months. SEGO 2023 advises pregnant patients to choose products without long-chain parabens (butyl-, propyl-) on large skin areas. Lactation – avoid on breast skin. Realistic assessment. Safe at cosmetic concentrations in healthy adults, but already archaic in 2026 dermocosmetics. Alternatives: phenoxyethanol, benzyl glycol, dehydroacetate, sorbic acid.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
ModeratePregnancy
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Butylparaben should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Butylparaben suits: normal, oily, combination, dry.
Long-chain paraben effective against fungi.
The INCI name is Butylparaben. It may also appear as: Butyl Paraben, Бутилпарабен.
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