Ingredient guide ›

Methylparaben

A long-used preservative.

What it does

Stops bacteria and mold from growing, so the product stays fresh longer.

Good to know

Clovi flags parabens because some people prefer to avoid them. Independent EU scientists (SCCS) checked methylparaben again in 2023 and found it safe at up to 0.4%.

Often found in: Body lotions, Hand creams, Toothpastes, Shampoos

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: Max 0.4% on its own, or 0.8% in total with other parabens of its group. Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: No limit in Australia's Poisons Standard. Source

Sources

• SCCS opinion: Methylparaben (2023) (Independent)
• Paraben esters: review of recent studies of endocrine toxicity, absorption and human exposure (J Appl Toxicol, 2008) (Independent)
• FDA: Parabens in cosmetics (Regulator)