4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid
A cosmetic ingredient used as fragrance, preservative in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
4-hydroxybenzoic acid
What does it do?
4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Fragrance
provides scent or masks the natural odour of other ingredients
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Preservative
prevents microbial growth in cosmetic products, extending shelf life and protecting users
EU regulatory status
4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid is listed in Annex V of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 as a substance permitted for the corresponding category of use.
Frequently asked questions
What is 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid?
4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 4-hydroxybenzoic acid
Is 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid do in cosmetic products?
4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: fragrance, preservative.
What is the CAS number of 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid is 99-96-7.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 11/08/2020