New Safety Assessment Reduces Maximum Concentration Limits
The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has determined that Butyl Paraben is not safe for children aged 0.5-10 years at its current maximum concentration of 0.14% when cosmetic products are used in combination.
Key Findings from the SCCS Opinion:
- Butyl Paraben is considered safe in single product categories (except body lotion) when used individually
- Safety concerns arise when children use multiple products containing the preservative
- The SCCS established a safe exposure threshold of 245 μg/kg body weight per day
New Concentration Guidelines:
Following public consultation, revised maximum concentration limits have been established:
- 0.14% in rinse-off products (unchanged)
- 0.002% in leave-on products (significantly reduced)
- 0.092% in oral care products (reduced)
At these new concentrations, the SCCS considers Butyl Paraben safe for children of all evaluated age groups across all assessed product types, whether used individually or together.
Important Limitations:
- This safety assessment does not apply to sprayable products, including mouth sprays
- Environmental impacts were not evaluated as they fall outside the SCCS mandate
Why This Matters for Parents and Manufacturers
This updated guidance provides clearer safety parameters for cosmetic products marketed for children. Parents concerned about ingredient safety can look for products following these new concentration guidelines, while manufacturers must adjust formulations to comply with these science-based recommendations.
You can read the full SCCS opinion