Ingredient Directory
Medium ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

Propylparaben

Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate

Safety Flags
Endocrine Disruptor
Safety Notes

Stronger endocrine disruption evidence; EU restricted in nappy area; TCS requires avoidance in baby and pregnancy submissions

Function & Common Use

Function

Preservative

Category

Preservative

Common In

General cosmetics

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No formal limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

0.14% propyl+butyl combined for nappy area children <3; 0.4% single general EU

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked; EU limit reference: 0.14% propyl+butyl combined for nappy area children <3; 0.4% single general EU

Korea (MFDS)

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

Baby restriction: Max 0.14% propyl+butyl combined in nappy area products children under 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Propylparaben safe to use in skincare?

Propylparaben has a Medium concern rating. Stronger endocrine disruption evidence; EU restricted in nappy area; TCS requires avoidance in baby and pregnancy submissions

Is Propylparaben allowed in India?

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

What is Propylparaben used for in cosmetics?

Propylparaben functions as: Preservative. It is commonly found in: General cosmetics.

Is Propylparaben safe for babies?

Propylparaben has baby/child restrictions: Max 0.14% propyl+butyl combined in nappy area products children under 3. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

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

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Restricted
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

CAS94-13-3
EC202-307-7

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