Parabens in cosmetics: what do European experts say about their safety?
Check What You Buy! Choose Cosmetics Wisely with InfoCons!
As part of the campaign “Check What You Buy! Choose Cosmetics Wisely!”, InfoCons works to inform and educate consumers about the risks associated with the use of non-compliant cosmetic products, by promoting accurate, science-based information supported by the expertise of specialists in the field of health.
Among the most debated preservatives in cosmetics are parabens. European experts have assessed them in detail, and their conclusions have led to clear rules that differ depending on the type of paraben.
What parabens are and why they are used
Parabens (INCI: …paraben) are a group of preservatives that prevent the growth of bacteria and moulds in cosmetic products, thus protecting consumers from microbiological contamination. They are among the most widely used preservatives precisely because of their effectiveness, but not all parabens share the same safety profile.
[premium]What European experts (SCCS) and legislation say
The safety assessment is carried out by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS). Based on its opinions, the European Commission established a nuanced framework. Methylparaben and ethylparaben are considered safe at the maximum authorised concentrations (0.4% for a single ester and 0.8% for mixtures – Annex V to Regulation 1223/2009), as repeatedly confirmed by the SCCS.
Propylparaben and butylparaben were restricted by Regulation (EU) No 1004/2014: the maximum concentration was reduced from 0.4% (individually) and 0.8% (in mixtures) to 0.14% (sum of concentrations, expressed as acid). In addition, they are banned in leave-on products intended for the nappy area of children under three, and leave-on products for children under three must carry the statement “Do not use on the nappy area”.
Five parabens were completely banned in the EU by Regulation (EU) No 358/2014, being added to the list of prohibited substances (Annex II): isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben, phenylparaben, benzylparaben and pentylparaben.
What this means for consumers
The presence of a paraben on the label does not automatically mean the product is unsafe: methyl- and ethylparaben are allowed precisely because they have been assessed as safe within legal limits. What matters is that the product is compliant, and that for babies and young children products are chosen that are labelled appropriately.
– Read the ingredient list (INCI) and identify parabens (e.g. Methylparaben, Ethylparaben).
– For children under three, check the warnings on leave-on products.
– Choose compliant products and check any alerts in the InfoCons App.
Conclusion
The European approach to parabens is gradual and evidence-based: some are safe within strict limits, others are restricted, and others banned. Through the campaign “Check What You Buy! Choose Cosmetics Wisely!”, InfoCons helps consumers understand what they read on the label.
European alerts on non-compliant products can be consulted directly in the InfoCons App.
Official sources: Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, Regulation (EU) No 358/2014 and Regulation (EU) No 1004/2014; opinions of the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS); European Commission.
Signed: InfoCons Consumer Protection – Communication Department
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