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Preservative

POTASSIUM PARABEN

CAS 16782-08-4 Updated
35

Safety score · 0–100

Caution

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

About

The potassium salt of paraben, an antimicrobial preservative class flagged by the EU for endocrine-disruption concerns. Permitted only with concentration limits and banned in nappy-area products for under-3s.

Function

PRESERVATIVE

Skin benefits

  • Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity
  • Effective against bacteria, yeasts, and molds
  • Water-soluble preservative form

Known concerns

  • Suspected endocrine disruptor (estrogenic activity)
  • EU restricts paraben class with concentration limits
  • Banned in leave-on products for the diaper area in under-3s
  • Increasingly avoided by consumers and brands

References

EU

EU CosIng database

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

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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.