Propylparaben
Propylparaben
- Role
- Helps protect the formula from bacteria and mould.
- Catalog formulas
- 3
- Type
- Stability
- Verified
- 09.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
The propyl ester of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid. CosIng lists it as a preservative and a functional fragrance ingredient; on labels it usually sits next to methyl- and ethylparaben.
Part of a system, not a label in isolation
It appears in creams and wet wipes that contain water and cannot be kept microbiologically stable without preservation. It has no effect on sweat or odor.
In the EU, propyl- and butylparaben have their own Annex V entry (12a): no more than 0.14% combined, calculated as the acid, and no more than 0.8% in a mixture with all parabens. Regulation 1004/2014 banned them in leave-on products for the nappy area of children under three; the new rules apply from 16 April 2015.
Like any preservative, it may cause an individual reaction. If a paraben allergy has been confirmed by patch testing, it is simpler to choose paraben-free formulas.
Not Isopropylparaben: that paraben, together with isobutyl-, phenyl-, benzyl- and pentylparaben, has been banned in the EU since 2014. Nor is it Methylparaben or Ethylparaben, which are allowed at higher concentrations.
Products containing Propylparaben
Links are based on the complete published INCI list for the exact product version.
Sources
The conclusions apply to the stated conditions and jurisdictions, not automatically to every concentration or product.
- CosIng Checker: Annex V, entry 12a (Propylparaben, Butylparaben and their salts) Supports: permitted concentration, restrictions
- Regulation (EU) 1004/2014: limits for propyl- and butylparaben Supports: restrictions, deadlines
- Regulation (EU) 358/2014: ban on five parabens Supports: prohibited parabens
- COSMILE Europe (CosIng data): Propylparaben Supports: function