Banned in EU

Paba

A cosmetic ingredient used as light stabilizer, uv absorber in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

4-Aminobenzoic acid

What does it do?

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

  • Light stabilizer

    protects a cosmetic formulation from degradation by UV light, extending its shelf life

  • Uv absorber

    absorbs ultraviolet light, used in sunscreens and to protect formulations from UV degradation

EU regulatory status

This ingredient is banned in the European Union.

Paba is listed under Annex II of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 (entry 167), making it prohibited in cosmetic products placed on the EU market.

Frequently asked questions

What is Paba?

Paba is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 4-Aminobenzoic acid

Is Paba allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

No. Paba is banned for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Annex II of Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Paba do in cosmetic products?

Paba is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: light stabilizer, uv absorber.

What is the CAS number of Paba?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Paba is 150-13-0.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 18/09/2020