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The facts: Butylparaben is restricted in European Union, though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Butylparaben on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: lotion, shampoo, makeup.
TL;DR: Butylparaben is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | high |
| Where it shows up | lotion, shampoo, makeup, deodorant |
Butylparaben is a paraben preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics.
Parabens are inexpensive, effective broad-spectrum preservatives.
Butylparaben is an endocrine-disrupting paraben with weak estrogenic activity. The EU restricts its concentration; it remains unrestricted federally in the US.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Butylparaben with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Yes. Butylparaben is restricted in European Union. The FDA still allows it in the US.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in lotion, shampoo, makeup, deodorant. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Butylparaben.
Choose paraben-free products and EU-compliant brands. BannedPantry flags restricted parabens on the INCI list. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Butylparaben or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Butylparaben.
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