Parabens in skincare
A family of preservatives with different permitted uses.
What are parabens?
A family of preservatives with different permitted uses. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What do parabens do for skin and the product?
Protects the product against microbial growth as part of a preservation system.
Preservation protects the product during storage and use. Water-containing formulations require an assessment of microbial safety. The overall system depends on factors including pH, packaging and other ingredients.
Parabens are not one substance. Permitted use depends on the specific compound and EU regulations.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about parabens
What do parabens do in skincare?
Protects the product against microbial growth as part of a preservation system.
What should I know about parabens?
Parabens are not one substance. Permitted use depends on the specific compound and EU regulations.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations