On September 28, 2026, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) opened a consultation on Spain’s proposal for harmonized classification and labeling (CLH) of several dimethylaminobenzoate derivatives, including the UV filter Padimate O, as Reprotoxic category 1B.
This consultation concerns three substances, two of which are ingredients authorised for use in cosmetics:
• Ethyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate (CAS No.10287-53-3; EC No.233-634-3; INCI: Ethyl dimethyl PABA; CosIng function: Light stabilizer) ;
• 2-ethylhexyl 4-(dimethylamino)benzoate (CAS No.21245-02-3; EC No.244-289-3; INN: Padimate O; INCI: Ethylhexyl Dimethyl PABA; CosIng functions: Light stabilizer, UV absorver, UV filter).
Ethyl dimethyl PABA is not currently regulated by European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.
Ethylhexyl Dimethyl PABA, on the other hand, is listed in Annex VI/21 (Authorised UV filters), which limits its maximum concentration in finished products to 8%.
Neither is currently listed in Annex VI of the European CLP Regulation 1272/2008.
Spain proposes to classify the substance as follows.
Identification
Index number
• TBD
Chemical name
• ethyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate ; 2-ethylhexyl 4-(dimethylamino)benzoate
EC number
• 233-634-3 ; 244-289-3
CAS number
• 10287-53-3 ; 21245-02-3
Classification
Hazard class and Category code(s)
• Repr. 1B
Hazard statement code(s)
• H360F - May damage fertility.
Labelling
Pictogram, Signal word code(s)
• GSH08
• Dgr (Danger)
Hazard statement code(s)
• H360F - May damage fertility.
Suppl. Hazard statement Code(s)
• /
Specific concentration …
