Ingredient Directory
High ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

Aminobenzoic Acid

4-aminobenzoic acid

Safety Flags
Allergen: Yes
Safety Notes

High contact sensitization and photoallergy rate; stained fabrics yellow; sensitization risk was so high that it has been largely abandoned globally; banned in EU cosmetics; FDA removed from OTC monograph due to insufficient safety data.

Function & Common Use

Function

UV Filter; Sunscreen (largely discontinued)

Category

UV Filters

Common In

Historical sunscreens (largely removed from market since 1990s-2000s)

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

Restricted use

EU Cosmetics Reg.

Banned (Annex II entry No. 1352)

US FDA (21 CFR)

N/A (removed from OTC monograph; Category III then dropped)

Korea (MFDS)

Restricted

Format restriction: Banned in EU cosmetics; not permitted in sunscreens in most markets

Baby restriction: Yes

Pregnancy: Yes

IFRA: No

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Aminobenzoic Acid safe to use in skincare?

Aminobenzoic Acid has a High concern rating. High contact sensitization and photoallergy rate; stained fabrics yellow; sensitization risk was so high that it has been largely abandoned globally; banned in EU cosmetics; FDA removed from OTC monograph due to insufficient safety data.

Is Aminobenzoic Acid allowed in India?

Aminobenzoic Acid is currently classified as "Restricted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Restricted use.

What is Aminobenzoic Acid used for in cosmetics?

Aminobenzoic Acid functions as: UV Filter; Sunscreen (largely discontinued). It is commonly found in: Historical sunscreens (largely removed from market since 1990s-2000s).

Can Aminobenzoic Acid cause an allergic reaction?

Yes. Aminobenzoic Acid has an allergen flag (Yes). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.

Is Aminobenzoic Acid safe for babies?

Aminobenzoic Acid has baby/child restrictions: Yes. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

TCS Assessment
High Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Restricted
EU
Banned
US FDA
Not approved
Korea (MFDS)
Restricted
Australia (TGA)
Restricted
Canada (NHPID)
Not listed

EU Annex: Annex II (banned)

Identifiers

CAS150-13-0
EC205-753-0

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