Propylparaben

SCCS members: U. Bernauer, L. Bodin (Rapporteur), Q. Chaudhry, P.J. Coenraads (Chairperson), M. Dusinska, J. Ezendam, E. Gaffet, C. L. Galli, B. Granum, E. Panteri, V. Rogiers, Ch. Rousselle, M. Stepnik, T. Vanhaecke, S. Wijnhoven
SCCS external experts: A. Koutsodimou, A. Simonnard (Rapporteur until 27 July 2020), W. Uter, N. von Goetz
Contact: SANTE-C2-SCCSec [dot] europa [dot] eu (SANTE-C2-SCCS[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)
On request from: European Commission
SCCS Number: SCCS/1623/20
Adopted on: 30-31 March 2021

Conclusion of the opinion:

1. In light of the data provided and taking under consideration the concerns related to potential endocrine disrupting properties of Propylparaben, does the SCCS consider Propylparaben safe when used as a preservative in cosmetic products up to a maximum concentration of 0.14 %?

On the basis of the safety assessment of Propylparaben, and considering the concerns related to potential endocrine disrupting properties, the SCCS has concluded that propylparaben is safe when used as a preservative in cosmetic products up to a maximum concentration of 0.14 %.

2. Alternatively, what is according to the SCCS, the maximum concentration considered safe for use of Propylparaben as a preservative in cosmetic products?

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3. Does the SCCS have any further scientific concerns with regard to the use of Propylparaben in cosmetic products?

The available data on Propylparaben provide some indications for potential endocrine effects. However, the current level of evidence is not sufficient to regard it as an endocrine disrupting substance, or to derive a toxicological point of departure based on endocrine disrupting properties for use in human health risk assessment.

The SCCS mandates do not address environmental aspects. Therefore, this assessment did not cover the safety of propylparaben for the environment.

Keywords:

SCCS, scientific opinion, Propylparaben, preservative, Regulation 1223/2009, CAS No 94-13-3, EC No 202-307-7

Opinion to be cited as:

SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety), Opinion on Propylparaben (CAS No 94-13-3, EC No 202-307-7), preliminary version of 27-28 October 2020, final version of 30-31 March 2021, SCCS/1623/20.