Methylparaben
Methylparaben
Also known as: Methyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate · E218
Preservative
“The most-studied cosmetic preservative — safe at approved concentrations.”
What it does
Methylparaben is the most widely used and studied paraben preservative in cosmetics. Concerns about oestrogen-mimicking activity were raised in the early 2000s, but regulatory bodies (EU, FDA, WHO) have repeatedly reviewed the evidence and confirmed safety at approved cosmetic concentrations (≤0.4%). It is highly effective against bacteria and fungi.
Benefits
- Highly effective broad-spectrum preservative
- Extensively studied safety profile
- Stable across a wide pH range
How to layer
☀️ Morning routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
SPF
🌙 Evening routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
Face Oil
After cleansing, before moisturiser
Good for
All skin
Works well with
Heads up
- ⚠Weak oestrogenic activity at very high concentrations — not relevant at cosmetic use levels
- ⚠May cause contact dermatitis in paraben-sensitive individuals
- ⚠Consumer perception is negative despite safety data
How to use
A background preservative ingredient. No special application needed.
Typical concentration: ≤0.4% for individual parabens (EU limit)