ETHYLPARABEN
Commonly Found In
Overview
Ethylparaben is a cosmetic preservative belonging to the paraben family, used to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth in personal care formulations. It shares a similar safety and regulatory profile with methylparaben, and studies suggest it has lower estrogen-receptor affinity than longer-chain parabens such as propyl- and butylparaben.
Also known as: ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate, ethyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, E214, Nipagin A, Tegosept E
Key Benefits
Functions as a preservative; no direct skin benefit, but helps maintain the safety and efficacy of formulations. Studies suggest lower estrogenic potency than propyl- and butylparaben.
Supporting Research
- β’ SCCS/1348/10 (2011): SCCS assessed ethylparaben as safe at EU permitted concentrations; estrogenic potency ranked lower than propyl- or butylparaben
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic at typical use concentrations
Source: CIR Expert Panel
Irritancy Rating
Low irritancy potential; similar profile to methylparaben
Source: CIR Expert Panel; SCCS/1348/10
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.1β0.4%
Optimal
0.1β0.3%
EU Annex V max 0.4% (single paraben) or 0.8% (mixed parabens). Japan allows up to 1%. US unrestricted.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Frequently used in combination with methylparaben for broader antimicrobial spectrum.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (V/12) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU and Japan both allow ethylparaben at limits similar to methylparaben. Considered less concerning than propyl- or butylparaben due to lower estrogenic activity in vitro studies.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 122 ingredients in the FRAGRANCE category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Found in trace amounts in blueberries, carrots, and some plant extracts. However, cosmetic-grade ethylparaben is always synthetically produced.
π How It's Made
Synthesized through esterification of p-hydroxybenzoic acid with ethanol in the presence of an acid catalyst (typically sulfuric acid). The reaction produces ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used at 0.1-0.4% as a preservative to prevent mold and certain bacteria from growing in products. The EU allows up to 0.4% for a single paraben, while Japan allows up to 1.0%.
π¬ Other Applications
Used as a preservative in pharmaceuticals (oral and topical medications), food products (labeled as E214), and industrial products.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Parabens were first used as preservatives in the 1920s and became widespread in the 1950s due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity
- β’ Denmark banned propyl and butylparaben in products for children under 3 in 2011, while the EU followed in 2014
- β’ Ethylparaben is considered less controversial than longer-chain parabens (propyl, butyl) due to lower estrogen-like effects in vitro studies
Data Sources
- β’ SCCS/1348/10 (2011) β Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety opinion on parabens
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex V
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β Safety Assessment of Parabens
- β’ Japan MHLW cosmetics standards
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
BENZOIC ACID
BUTYLPARABEN
METHYLPARABEN
PHENOL
POTASSIUM SORBATE
SODIUM BENZOATE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ETHYLPARABEN used for in cosmetics?
ETHYLPARABEN is primarily used for fragrance in cosmetic products. It also serves as preservative. The ingredient is commonly found in perfumes, colognes, and scented cosmetics.
Which countries regulate ETHYLPARABEN?
ETHYLPARABEN is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to ETHYLPARABEN?
Due to regulatory restrictions on ETHYLPARABEN, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For fragrance, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Where can I find official regulation information about ETHYLPARABEN?
Official information about ETHYLPARABEN regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.