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The facts: Isobutylparaben is banned in 1 country/region (including 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 Isobutylparaben on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: lotion, shampoo, makeup.
TL;DR: Isobutylparaben is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | high |
| Where it shows up | lotion, shampoo, makeup, deodorant |
Isobutylparaben is a paraben preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics.
Parabens are inexpensive, effective broad-spectrum preservatives.
Isobutylparaben is an endocrine-disrupting paraben with weak estrogenic activity. The EU banned it in 2014; it remains unrestricted federally in the US.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Isobutylparaben 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. Isobutylparaben is banned 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 Isobutylparaben.
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 Isobutylparaben or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Isobutylparaben.
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