Butylparaben

Butylparaben (CAS 94-26-8, molecular formula C11H14O3, molecular weight 194.23) is a white crystalline powder at room temperature, melting at 67-70°C, with an assay of ≥99.0 and salicylic acid ≤0.10% (see specifications). It is slightly soluble in water (1:6500) and soluble in alcohol, ether and chloroform - one of the more oil-soluble members of the paraben series. According to published literature, butylparaben shows growth inhibition against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts and molds; the applicable pH range is 4-8. Actual dosage follows formulation verification and the target market's current regulations; some markets (e.g. the EU) restrict its use in cosmetics by concentration limits and scope (per current regulations of the target market). Published literature reports both stand-alone and blended use with other parabens.

Used in cosmetics and personal care as a preservative and antimicrobial agent, reported active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts and molds. Among the paraben series, the butyl ester has comparatively good oil solubility (slightly soluble in water at 1:6500, soluble in alcohol, ether and chloroform, see specifications). Downstream applications include creams, lotions, lipsticks, eye shadows, foundations and other oil-rich formulas. Published literature reports both stand-alone and blended use. Applicable pH range 4–8; actual dosage follows formulation verification and the target market's current regulations; some markets (e.g. the EU) restrict its use in cosmetics by concentration limits and scope (per current regulations of the target market).

Lipsticks, eye shadows and foundations are built mainly on oil, wax and powder bases (see Usage); with its good oil solubility and slight water solubility, butylparaben is commonly incorporated by blending into the oil-wax system, verified in each formula's process. Typical review points are assay (≥99.0) and salicylic acid (≤0.10%) on this page.

In oil-containing systems such as creams and lotions, butylparaben often serves as the oil-phase component of a blended preservative system, paired with more water-soluble esters such as methylparaben (published literature reports both stand-alone and blended use); combinations and ratios are verified by the formulator.

Exported cosmetics and personal care products must meet the target market's listing requirements for the preservatives used; whether a specific use is permitted, its use limits and labelling follow the current regulations of the target market (some markets, e.g. the EU, restrict its use in cosmetics by concentration limits and scope), and buyers are responsible for confirming compliance. No limit values are provided on this page.