Methylparaben

Methylparaben is a cosmetic ingredient used as a fragrance, preservative agent. It appears in about 2% of cosmetic products in our 90,000+ product dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex). PubMed carries 375 studies of its skin or topical use.

INCI nameMETHYLPARABEN
FunctionFRAGRANCE, PRESERVATIVE
CAS number99-76-3
EC number202-785-7
Prevalence1,936 products (2.09% of dataset)
Most used inSkincare
EU statusRestricted (annex )
Scientific studies375 on PubMed (skin/cosmetic/topical)
Monthly searches3,600

Used in

Face Cleansers 8.7%General Moisturizers 8.5%Body Lotions 6%Prescription 5.7%Toners 5%Facial Treatments 4.8%

Frequently asked

What does Methylparaben do in skincare?
Methylparaben functions as a fragrance, preservative agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is Methylparaben allowed in cosmetics?
Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain Methylparaben?
It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially face cleansers (8.7% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using Methylparaben

Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.