Ingredient Directory
Medium ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

Methylparaben

Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate

Safety Flags
Endocrine Disruptor
Safety Notes

Weak estrogenic activity; SCCS concluded safe at permitted levels for general population; TCS precautionary avoidance in baby and pregnancy submissions

Function & Common Use

Function

Preservative

Category

Preservative

Common In

Wide use across all cosmetic categories

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No formal limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

0.4% single; 0.8% paraben mixture max EU

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked; EU limit reference: 0.4% single; 0.8% paraben mixture max EU

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Baby restriction: Avoid in baby products (precautionary)

Pregnancy: Caution during pregnancy; endocrine disruption data; precautionary avoidance of high-frequency leave-on use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Methylparaben safe to use in skincare?

Methylparaben has a Medium concern rating. Weak estrogenic activity; SCCS concluded safe at permitted levels for general population; TCS precautionary avoidance in baby and pregnancy submissions

Is Methylparaben allowed in India?

Methylparaben is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.

What is Methylparaben used for in cosmetics?

Methylparaben functions as: Preservative. It is commonly found in: Wide use across all cosmetic categories.

Is Methylparaben safe for babies?

Methylparaben has baby/child restrictions: Avoid in baby products (precautionary). Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

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

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic preservative; TGA cosmetic use acceptable; ensure compliance with Therapeutic Goods (Cosmetics) Rules 2020 if therapeutic claims are made
Canada (NHPID)
Preservative; Health Canada cosmetic ingredient use; no specific NHPID restriction identified in source checked unless therapeutic claims are made

EU Annex: EU Annex V

Identifiers

CAS99-76-3
EC202-785-7

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