Allowed in EU · Annex V

Ethylparaben

A cosmetic ingredient used as fragrance, preservative in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

Ethyl 4-hydroxybenzoate

What does it do?

Ethylparaben is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Fragrance

    provides scent or masks the natural odour of other ingredients

  • Preservative

    prevents microbial growth in cosmetic products, extending shelf life and protecting users

EU regulatory status

Ethylparaben 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 Ethylparaben?

Ethylparaben is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Ethyl 4-hydroxybenzoate

Is Ethylparaben allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Ethylparaben is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Ethylparaben do in cosmetic products?

Ethylparaben is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: fragrance, preservative.

What is the CAS number of Ethylparaben?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Ethylparaben is 120-47-8.

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