Propylparaben

PropylparahydroxybenzoateE 216

Preservative

Propylparaben is a type of preservative used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in products. It's commonly found in personal care products like lotions and creams.

What it is

Propylparaben is a synthetic chemical derived from parabens, used to prevent microbial growth in products.

Found in

lotions, creams, shampoos, conditioners, body washes

The concern

Some studies have linked propylparaben to hormone disruption and reproductive issues, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects on human health.

Legal status

Propylparaben is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, but some EU countries have banned its use in leave-on products due to concerns over hormone disruption.

Moderate Concern

Propylparaben has been linked to hormone disruption and reproductive issues in animal studies, but its effects on humans are still being researched.

Evidence & sources

Authority source

Safety basis: FDA

FDA assessment

Article / explainer

Assessing systemic absorption and estrogenic potential of methylparaben and propylparaben in consumer use.

PubMed study

PubMed • Consumer-use exposure study focused on methylparaben and propylparaben absorption and estrogenic potential.

Read source

Video explainer

No highly relevant video explainer found yet.

Community questions

Common questions about propylparaben

paraben comparison • preservative systems • rinse-off vs leave-on • sensitive skin

People commonly ask how propylparaben differs from methylparaben, why parabens are combined in formulas, and whether concerns change between rinse-off and leave-on products. Context only, not used as safety evidence.