Methyl Paraben
Methyl Paraben is a white to off-white crystalline powder widely used as an antimicrobial preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products. It is a member of the paraben family of preservatives known for their effectiveness against a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi. Methyl Paraben helps extend the shelf life of products by preventing microbial growth without affecting the product’s texture or color.
Methyl Paraben
Primary Uses
- Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
- Preservative in creams, lotions, shampoos, and makeup to prevent microbial contamination.
- Enhances product stability and shelf life.
- Pharmaceuticals
- Used as a preservative in topical formulations, syrups, and injectables to inhibit microbial growth.
- Food Industry
- Acts as a preservative in baked goods, beverages, and processed foods to prevent spoilage.
Secondary Uses
- Industrial Applications
- Used in the preservation of adhesives and inks to prevent bacterial degradation.
- Laboratory Reagent
- Employed as a preservative in biological and chemical reagents.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate
- Common/Trade Name: Methyl Paraben
- CAS Number: 99-76-3
- HS Code: 2916.39.00
- Synonyms: Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate; E218; Parahydroxybenzoic acid methyl ester
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Powder or crystalline solid
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; odorless or faint aromatic odor
- Melting Point: 125 – 128°C
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol, ether, and chloroform
- Density: Approx. 1.32 g/cm³
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous at typical use concentrations
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally recognized as safe (GRAS) at regulated levels
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits; standard handling precautions
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from strong oxidizers
- Container Type: Supplied in sealed bags or containers
- Shelf Life: Typically 24 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation; use gloves and dust masks if necessary
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with FDA, USP, and European pharmacopoeia standards
- Approved as a food preservative (E218) and cosmetic preservative under various regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable under environmental conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact when used as directed
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, dust mask, and safety goggles recommended during handling
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid inhalation of dust
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and stored away from incompatible materials
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if symptoms occur
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible solid
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide extinguishers
- Special Precautions: Wear protective equipment to avoid dust inhalation
- Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon oxides and other toxic fumes under fire conditions
Related products
Ammonium Lactate
Ammonium Lactate is the ammonium salt of lactic acid, appearing as a clear, hygroscopic liquid or syrupy solution. It is widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries primarily for its moisturizing, pH adjusting, and antimicrobial properties. In topical formulations, it acts as a keratolytic agent to help exfoliate and hydrate skin, making it popular in treatments for dry, scaly, or ichthyotic skin conditions. Its biocompatibility and mild acidic nature make it a versatile ingredient in various industrial and personal care products.
Cetrimide Powder
Cetrimide Powder is a high-purity quaternary ammonium compound widely used for its antiseptic, disinfectant, and surfactant properties. It is a cationic surfactant derived from cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder with a slight characteristic odor. Known for its excellent antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria and fungi, cetrimide is frequently incorporated in pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial formulations. It acts as a bactericidal agent, detergent, and emulsifier, providing effective cleaning and disinfecting action.
Methoxy benzophenone Sulfonic Acid
Methoxy Benzophenone Sulfonic Acid is a water-soluble UV filter widely used in sunscreen and cosmetic formulations. It absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily in the UVB range, protecting skin and products from harmful effects of sun exposure. This compound appears as a white to off-white powder or crystalline solid and is valued for its photostability and broad-spectrum UV protection.
Phenoxyethanol
Phenoxyethanol 10 is a glycol ether commonly used as a preservative and antimicrobial agent in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. It is a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild floral scent. Phenoxyethanol offers broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it an effective alternative to parabens in many products. Its stability, low toxicity, and compatibility with various ingredients make it a popular choice in personal care and industrial applications.
Potassium Sorbate FCC
Potassium Sorbate FCC (Food Chemical Codex) is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, a white crystalline powder widely used as a food preservative. It effectively inhibits the growth of molds, yeasts, and some bacteria, thus extending the shelf life of various food and beverage products. Known for its low toxicity and minimal impact on flavor, Potassium Sorbate is a preferred preservative in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.
Propyl paraben
Propyl Paraben is a widely used preservative belonging to the paraben family, known for its antimicrobial properties. It is commonly employed to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food products. Propyl Paraben is favored for its effectiveness, low toxicity, and compatibility with a broad range of formulations, helping extend product shelf life while maintaining safety.
Propylparaben (Prop BH)
Prop BH, also known as Propylparaben or Propyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate, is an organic compound belonging to the paraben family of preservatives. It appears as colorless small crystals or a white crystalline powder with a characteristic mild odor and a slightly bitter taste. The compound is practically insoluble in cold water but readily soluble in alcohols, ethers, and other organic solvents. Propylparaben is widely recognized for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, particularly effective against molds, yeasts, and bacteria. Propylparaben is manufactured for use as a preservative in various industrial applications and is not intended for direct human consumption without appropriate certification.
Sodium Benzoate
Sodium Benzoate is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, appearing as a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. It is widely used as a preservative due to its antimicrobial properties, especially effective against yeast and bacteria in acidic conditions. Sodium Benzoate is commonly employed in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries to extend shelf life and maintain product quality. It meets food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade purity standards, ensuring safety for consumption and topical use.

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