The Index · Preservative / booster
Methylparaben
Methylparaben
Methylparaben is a preservative or preservative booster used to protect water-based formulas.
FunctionalFunctional ingredient, not graded for skin benefits
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Methylparaben is a preservative or preservative booster used to protect water-based formulas.
What it does
Helps control microbial growth in water-containing formulas, sometimes boosting other preservatives.
The evidence
Functional ingredient (not graded for skin benefits): Preservative or booster with CIR/SCCS cosmetic-use history at conventional levels. Credible chemical identity and cosmetic-use context come from CIR/SCCS/manufacturer INCI definitions and databases such as SpecialChem/PubChem[1].
How to use it
Expect this as a supporting INCI line item unless labelled as a featured active.
What it does in the formula
Functional ingredient — not graded for skin benefits
Methylparaben is a preservative or preservative booster used to protect water-based formulas.[1]
Safety & limits
Source and region, always
all — Used in cosmetics within conventional leave-on/rinse-off levels; see cited safety literature.[1] CA US EU UK
Sources · 2
Numbered as cited in the text
- [1]Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment. CIR (2010)regulator
- [2]SpecialChem. SpecialChem INCI profile: Methylparaben. SpecialChem (2024)other
Revision history
18 Sept 2026Drafted by botTheSkindex Desk