BHT

Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)

Also searched asButylated Hydroxytoluene

Role: Protects the oils and fragrance in a formula from oxidation.
Catalog formulas: 15
Type: Stability
Verified: 06.11.2026

What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?

As an antioxidant, it slows reactions with oxygen that make oils and fragrance ingredients go rancid or change their smell or color.

Part of a system, not a label in isolation

In antiperspirants it usually sits near the end of the list: oil-based sticks and fragranced aerosols need only a little of it. Its job is to keep the product stable, not to care for the skin.

Regulatory and scientific context

Since 2023, BHT has been restricted in the EU under Annex III of Regulation 1223/2009: up to 0.8% in leave-on and rinse-off products (lower limits apply to mouthwash and toothpaste). The CIR found BHT safe at the low concentrations used in cosmetics.

What sensitive skin should consider

According to the CIR, limited skin studies and clinical reports showed no significant irritation, sensitization or photosensitization.

Do not confuse with

It is not the same as BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), a different antioxidant with its own assessment. Nor is it a preservative: other ingredients protect against microbes.

Products containing BHT

Links are based on the complete published INCI list for the exact product version.

ProductFormatRole in the formulaFull analysis

Skinphoria Fresh Protection 48h 50 mlroll-onantioxidantOpen

Lady Speed Stick Invisible Protection 45 gstickantioxidantOpen

Rexona Extra Protection Sexy Bouquet 150 mlaerosolantioxidantOpen

Dermedic Antipersp R roll-on 60 mlroll-onantioxidantOpen

Bielita Scandinavian Morning dry cream 50 mlcreamantioxidantOpen

Dove Go Fresh pomegranate & lemon verbena spray 150 mlsprayantioxidantOpen

Dove Beauty & Care aerosol 150 mlsprayantioxidantOpen

Lion Ban Premium stick, non fragrance, 20 gstickantioxidantOpen

Dove Advanced Care Sensitive stick 74 gstickantioxidantOpen

Degree Clinical Protection 5 in 1 stick 48 gstickantioxidantOpen

Degree Men Clinical Protection Sport Strength stick 48 gstickantioxidantOpen

Dove Men+Care Clinical Protection Clean Comfort stick 48 gstickantioxidantOpen

GEHWOL Foot + Shoe Deo foot and shoe deodorant 150 mlaerosolantioxidantOpen

NIVEA MEN Black & White Invisible Original stick 50 mlstickantioxidantOpen

NIVEA MEN Black & White MAX PRO roll-on 50 mlroll-onantioxidantOpen

Sources

The conclusions apply to the stated conditions and jurisdictions, not automatically to every concentration or product.

Regulation (EU) 2022/2195: BHT in Annex III Supports: permitted concentration, restrictions
CIR: Final report on the safety assessment of BHT (2002) Supports: safety assessment, irritation and sensitisation
COSMILE Europe (CosIng data): BHT Supports: function

BHT

What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?

Part of a system, not a label in isolation

Products containing BHT

Sources

Ingredients with a similar role