Evaluation of parabens in cosmetic products - In BAV Newsletter 01/2011

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Jun 13, 2017 - Cosmetics

Evaluation of parabens in cosmetic products - In BAV Newsletter 01/2011

The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has assessed the use of parabens in cosmetics such as creams, lotions, and sunscreens in a recent statement. Certain parabens are used as preservatives in these products. Parabens are a group of substances that include various individual compounds. Animal studies have shown that some parabens can influence the hormonal system. The BfR has assessed the health risks of parabens in cosmetic products. The following conclusions were drawn:

• Methyl- and ethylparaben are considered safe up to a concentration of 0.4%
• Butyl- and propylparaben should be limited to a total of 0.19%.

Other parabens cannot currently be assessed due to insufficient data. The statement can be found on the BfR website.
Link to the announcement