On June 18, 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) announced France’s intention to propose the harmonized classification and labeling (CLH) of the preservative Methylparaben, notably as an endocrine disruptor.
Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate (CAS No.99-76-3, EC No.202-785-7, INCI: Methylparaben) is an ingredient listed in the Cosing, with the functions: Fragrance, Preservative.
The substance is regulated by Annex V/12 of European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 which limits its maximum concentration to 0.4% (as acid) when used alone, with a maximum of 0.8% for paraben mixtures in which it is present.
It is not currently listed actuellement pas listée in Annex VI of European CLP Regulation 1272/2008.
France intends to propose the following classifications.
• ED ENV 1, EUH430 - May cause endocrine disruption in the environment.
• Endocrine disruptor for human health.
As a reminder, in its last assessment of the substance in 2024, as part of the European Commission’s program of priority assessment of a list of endocrine disruptors, the SCCS confirmed that the concentrations set out in Annex V/12 of the Cosmetics Regulation were safe for human health.
Related Ingredient Datasheet
Sources
• ECHA Weekly - New intention and proposals to harmonise classification and labelling, ECHA, 18 June 2025
• Registry of CLH intentions until outcome - Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, ECHA, 16 JUne 2025
