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Ethylparaben

Short-chain paraben with a clean safety profile. SCCS and CIR consider it safe in cosmetics without age restrictions.

Evidence by route

C

Topical application

Methyl- and ethylparaben show low estrogen-like activity and clear the body quickly. They remain the most studied and safest members of the group.

How to read tiers A–F
  • CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential
Low
Allergen risk
Low
Pregnancy
Safe
Suitable for
Normal, Oily, Combination, Dry, Sensitive

About this ingredient

Ethylparaben is a short-chain paraben, the ester of ethyl alcohol with para-hydroxybenzoic acid. One of the oldest and most studied preservatives in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, in use since the 1920s. Where applied. Creams, lotions, serums, hair products, color cosmetics, pharmaceuticals (0.1-0.4%). Often in short-chain methyl-/ethyl-/propyl-/butylparaben blends. After the 2010s anti-paraben wave many brands removed parabens – mostly retained in pharmaceutical and medical formulas. Safety. SCCS 2013 (Opinion 1348/10) and CIR 2008 confirmed methyl- and ethylparaben safe at up to 0.4% single or 0.8% total parabens. Long-chain propyl-, isopropyl-, butyl-, isobutylparaben have been banned in EU children's diaper-area products since 2015 (Regulation 1004/2014). Anti-paraben wave. Darbre 2004 found parabens in breast cancer tissue samples – sparked panic. Subsequent meta-analyses (Mirick 2002, Hampel 2014) did not confirm a causal link. SCCS, EU EMA, FDA, and endocrinology associations do not classify short-chain parabens as endocrine disruptors at cosmetic concentrations. Allergy. Sensitization in 0.5-3% of patients in broad patch-test studies. Parabens remain in the standard ESCD patch-test panel. Pregnancy – safe (SAFE per EU EMA). Lactation – use with caution (CAUTION): as a precaution avoid use on nipple areas to prevent infant oral exposure. Alternatives: phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, sorbic acid.

Frequently asked questions

Is Ethylparaben safe during pregnancy?

Ethylparaben is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.

What skin types is Ethylparaben for?

Ethylparaben suits: normal, oily, combination, dry, sensitive.

What is Ethylparaben and what does it do in cosmetics?

Short-chain paraben with a clean safety profile.

What's the INCI name for Ethylparaben?

The INCI name is Ethylparaben. It may also appear as: Ethyl Paraben.

See Ethylparaben in a product composition right on the store page

The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni 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.

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