GLYCERYL PABA
Commonly Found In
Overview
GLYCERYL PABA is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for UV ABSORBER. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Glyceryl PABA, Glyceryl p-aminobenzoate, PABA glyceryl ester
Key Benefits
Glyceryl PABA functions as a UVB-absorbing sunscreen active. It may help protect skin from UVB radiation damage. However, its use has declined due to photosensitization concerns, and it is banned in EU/UK cosmetics.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; sunscreen active used at low concentrations in aqueous formulas.
Source: CIR Expert Panel safety assessment
Irritancy Rating
Moderate sensitization potential; PABA-derived sunscreen with known photoallergy risk. PABA esters, including glyceryl PABA, are associated with cross-reactions in people allergic to sulfonamides and benzocaine. Now largely replaced by less allergenic UV filters.
Source: CIR Expert Panel; photopatch test literature
Typical Use Concentration
Range
Up to sunscreen active limits (where permitted)
Optimal
Per regulatory specifications
Where permitted, use governed by sunscreen regulations.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Banned in EU and UK (Annex II/167). Some reports of photosensitization and contact allergy. Largely replaced by newer UV filters with better safety profiles.
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 | Banned | - | - | 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 (II/167) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU banned glyceryl PABA (Annex II/167) due to photosensitization and allergy concerns. Japan approves it as a UV filter under its positive list. The US permits it but consumer preferences have shifted toward PABA-free formulations.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 44 ingredients in the UV ABSORBER category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Not found in nature. A synthetic ester combining glycerin and PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid). PABA itself is naturally produced by bacteria and found in some foods.
π How It's Made
Synthesized by esterification of glycerin with para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) under controlled conditions with a catalyst.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for uv absorber.
π¬ Other Applications
PABA is used in folic acid synthesis by bacteria, as a nutritional supplement, and historically in some pharmaceutical formulations.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ PABA-based sunscreens were the most popular UV filters in the 1970s and 1980s before they fell out of favor due to allergy concerns
- β’ Many sunscreen labels now proudly state 'PABA-free' β showing how dramatically this once-popular ingredient fell from grace
- β’ PABA is actually a B-vitamin (sometimes called vitamin B10 or Bx), though it's not considered essential for humans
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex II/167
- β’ Japanese Standards for Cosmetic Ingredients (UV filter positive list)
- β’ FDA OTC sunscreen monograph
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
ALLANTOIN PABA
RED PETROLATUM
BENZOPHENONE-3
BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE
BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE
CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is GLYCERYL PABA banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning GLYCERYL PABA under II/167 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is GLYCERYL PABA banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits GLYCERYL PABA (II/167) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is GLYCERYL PABA used for in cosmetics?
GLYCERYL PABA is primarily used for uv absorber in cosmetic products. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate GLYCERYL PABA?
GLYCERYL PABA is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to GLYCERYL PABA?
Due to regulatory restrictions on GLYCERYL PABA, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For uv absorber, 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.
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.