Isopropylparaben

Isopropylparaben

Isopropylparaben is a type of paraben, a class of chemicals widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Parabens are effective preservatives in many types of formulas. These compounds, and their salts, are used primarily for their bactericidal and fungicidal properties. They can be found in shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, personal lubricants, topical/parenteral pharmaceuticals, spray tanning solution, makeup, and toothpaste. They are also used as food additives.

Chemical Structure

Isopropylparaben, chemically known as isopropyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, is an ester of isopropyl alcohol and p-hydroxybenzoic acid. Its molecular formula is C10H12O3. It is a white crystalline powder that is slightly soluble in water, but well soluble in alcohol and ether.

Chemical structure of Isopropylparaben

Uses

Isopropylparaben is used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products, including creams, lotions, shampoos, and bath products. It is also used in the pharmaceutical industry as a preservative in certain drugs and medications.

Safety and Health Effects

The safety of Isopropylparaben, as well as other parabens, has been the subject of recent controversy. While parabens are generally considered safe for use in cosmetics by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some studies have suggested that they may have potential health risks, including endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, and carcinogenicity. However, these studies are not conclusive, and further research is needed to fully understand the potential health effects of parabens.

See Also

• Paraben
• Preservative
• Cosmetic
• Pharmaceutical
• Isopropyl alcohol
• p-hydroxybenzoic acid