Formaldehyde (free) vs Propyl Gallate: which is worse?
Quick answer: Formaldehyde (free) carries the heavier risk profile. Formaldehyde (free) is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Propyl Gallate is — in the EU and — in the US.
| Property | Formaldehyde (free) | Propyl Gallate |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | — |
| US status | Allowed | — |
| Risk level | high | — |
| Banned in | European Union | Japan (banned for food use) |
| Restricted in | — | European Union (restricted to 200 mg/kg in specific fat/oil applications), United Kingdom, Australia |
| Category | cmr | additive |
| Where it hides | nail hardener, keratin treatment, eyelash glue | — |
What is Formaldehyde (free)?
Formaldehyde (free) is free formaldehyde used directly as a preservative and in salon hair treatments.
What is Propyl Gallate?
Propyl gallate is a synthetic antioxidant preservative derived from gallic acid and propanol. It prevents oxidation of fats and oils, extending shelf life of fat-containing foods. It is often used in combination with BHA and BHT for synergistic antioxidant effect. Chemical formula: C10H12O5.
Documented risks
Formaldehyde (free): A known human carcinogen (IARC Group 1). Banned from direct use in EU cosmetics; allowed in US products with limited oversight.
Propyl Gallate: Animal studies have shown propyl gallate may cause liver damage at high doses. Concerns about estrogenic activity have been raised — some studies suggest propyl gallate may weakly mimic estrogen. Contact dermatitis and allergic reactions are documented in both food and cosmetic applications. Japan banned propyl gallate for food use as part of its precautionary approach to synthetic food preservatives. NTP bioassays found dose-dependent liver effects. EFSA's re-evaluation set an ADI of 0.1 mg/kg body weight — one of the lowest ADIs for food additives, reflecting toxicological concern.
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