Ethylparaben

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Ethylparaben is a paraben and a paraben ester commonly used as a preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products. It is the ethyl ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. Ethylparaben is known for its antimicrobial properties, which help in extending the shelf life of products by preventing the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast.

Chemical Properties

Ethylparaben has the chemical formula C₉H₁₀O₃ and a molecular weight of 166.17 g/mol. It appears as a white crystalline powder that is soluble in alcohol and slightly soluble in water. The compound is synthesized through the esterification of p-hydroxybenzoic acid with ethanol.

Uses

Ethylparaben is widely used in various industries due to its effective preservative qualities:

• In cosmetics, it is used in products such as shampoos, lotions, and makeup to prevent microbial contamination.
• In pharmaceuticals, it is used in creams, ointments, and liquid medications to ensure product stability and safety.
• In food products, it is used as a preservative to extend shelf life and maintain product quality.

Safety and Regulation

Ethylparaben, like other parabens, has been the subject of safety evaluations. Regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have deemed ethylparaben safe for use in specified concentrations. However, there has been ongoing debate and research regarding the potential health effects of parabens, particularly their role as endocrine disruptors.

Related Compounds

Ethylparaben is part of a larger group of paraben esters, which include:

• Methylparaben
• Propylparaben
• Butylparaben
• Isobutylparaben

These compounds share similar preservative properties and are often used in combination to enhance their antimicrobial efficacy.

See Also

• Paraben
• Preservative
• Cosmetics
• Pharmaceuticals
• Food preservation