What it is
The ethyl ester of para-hydroxybenzoic acid, slightly more lipophilic than methylparaben and therefore more readily absorbed through skin.
What it does
Broad-spectrum preservative, typically paired with methylparaben to cover a wider range of microbes in creams, shampoos, and cosmetics.
Why it’s a concern
Ethylparaben shows weak estrogenic activity in yeast and mammalian cell assays and has been detected in human urine and breast tissue samples. The Danish EPA flagged parabens as endocrine concerns in children under three, prompting a voluntary ban on propyl- and butylparaben in leave-on products for that age group. Ethylparaben is still permitted in the EU up to 0.4% as a single ester, with the SCCS continuing to review cumulative exposure.
Also known as
ethyl parabenethyl 4-hydroxybenzoatee214
CAS numbers
120-47-8
Commonly found in
lotionshampoomakeupbaby wipes
Safer alternatives
- sodium benzoate with potassium sorbate
- glyceryl caprylate
- leucidal liquid
Related chemical families
Sources
- EWG Skin Deep: Ethylparaben
- Danish EPA Survey of Parabens 2013