Skip to content

Other

ETHYL PABA

CAS 94-09-7
54

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

Ethyl Paba is a cosmetic ingredient used in product formulations. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.

Ethyl PABA (ethyl 4-aminobenzoate, CAS 94-09-7) is a PABA derivative historically used as a UV filter in sunscreen products. The EU Cosmetic Regulation 1223/2009 restricts its use under Annex II reference II/167, specifically due to evidence of skin sensitization and phototoxic potential. While still listed in CosIng, the restriction means it cannot be used in cosmetic products marketed in the EU. Its UV filter function has been largely replaced by newer, safer alternatives such as ethylhexyl triazone and bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine.

Skin benefits

  • UV filter (historically)
  • Absorbs UVB radiation

Known concerns

  • EU Annex II restricted (II/167)
  • Skin sensitizer
  • Phototoxic potential
  • Sensitization risk in susceptible individuals

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Related others

54
Disodium 7-hydroxy-8-(phenylazo)naphthalene-1,3-disulphonate
Other
 54
HC YELLOW NO. 15
Other
 54
ISOPROPYL-METHYL-BICYCLOOCTENE-2-CARBALDEHYDE
Other
 54
MEA PPG-6 LAURETH-7 CARBOXYLATE
Other
 54
NONOXYNOL-70
Other
 54
OCTOXYNOL-5
Other
 55
1-(4-Chlorophenoxy)-1-(imidazol-1-yl)-3,3-dimethylbutan-2-one
Other
 55
1-Hydroxy-3-nitro- 4-(3-hydroxypropy lamino)benzene
Other

Check your shelf

Find ETHYL PABA in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains ETHYL PABA and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.