PROPYLPARABEN

Propylparaben is a common preservative used to shield cosmetics and personal care items against microbial growth. 
Propylparaben is largely added to water-based products like shampoos, lotions, and creams that are vulnerable to deterioration. 
Propylparaben is cheap and easily available making products pocket-friendly and economical. 

CAS Number: 94-13-3
Molecular Formula: C10H12O3
Molecular Weigh: 180.2
EINECS Number: 202-307-7

Synonyms: , Propyl-4-Hydroxybenzoate,(S), PROPYL PARABEN [VANDF], PROPYLPARABEN [WHO-DD], CHEMBL194014, Propyl parahydroxybenzoate (TN), BDBM70190, NSC8511, HMS2268K21, Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, BioXtra, Propyl parahydroxybenzoate (JP17), HY-N2026, Tox21_111048, Tox21_400012, BBL023754, s5405, STL294815, 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid, n-propyl ester, AKOS008948099, component of Heb-Cort MC (Salt/Mix), 1ST2511, CCG-266432, DB14177, DS-3427, PROPYL HYDROXYBENZOATE [WHO-IP], PROPYL P-HYDROXYBENZOATE [FHFI], PROPYL PARAHYDROXYBENZOATE [JAN], USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 061203, NCGC00090965-01, NCGC00090965-02, NCGC00090965-05, NCGC00090965-06, NCGC00090965-07, AC-34533, DA-66938, E216, DB-221787, CS-0018518, H0219, NS00002126, P1955, PROPYLIS HYDROXYBENZOAS [WHO-IP LATIN], D01422, SBI-0653917.0001, EN300-7419478, A844839, Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, p.a., 99.0-100.5%, Propyl Parahydroxybenzoate 0.01 mg/ml in Methanol, Propyl Parahydroxybenzoate 1.0 mg/ml in Methanol, Q511627, Q-201635, BRD-K60783397-001-09-5, Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, SAJ first grade, >=98.0%, Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, tested according to Ph.Eur., Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 98%, Propylparaben, certified reference material, TraceCERT(R), Propylparaben, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard, Propyl parahydroxybenzoate, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard, Propylparaben, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material, InChI=1/C10H12O3/c1-2-7-13-10(12)8-3-5-9(11)6-4-8/h3-6,11H,2,7H2,1H

Propylparaben is a colorless and fine crystalline or white crystalline powder, almost odorless and with slightly astringent.
Further, Propylparaben can be known by its trade names like Propyl Chemsept and Chemacide PK. 
Propylparaben is important to note that synthetic Propylparaben was banned for use in the food industry due to its risks to reproductive health upon ingestion. 

However, Propylparaben is safe for use externally when added in lower concentrations. 
The chemical formula of Propylparaben is C10H12O3.
Apart from increasing the shelf life of such formulations, this ingredient may also act as an antifungal agent for the skin. 

Soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether, acetone and other organic solvents, slightly soluble in water.
Propylparaben belongs to the class of parabens, commonly used along with methylparaben (MP) since they exhibit synergistic effects.
Propylparaben can be derived from the esterification of p-hydroxybenzoic acid and n-propanol. 

First mix Propylparaben with propanol and heat to dissolve. 
Then add sulfuric acid slowly and continue to heat for 8h of refluxion. 
After cooling, pour them into the 4% sodium carbonate solution for precipitation and crystallization. 

Filtrate and wash to neutral to obtain the crude product. 
After further ethanol recrystallization, the finished products are obtained. 
In the preparation, the cation exchange resin can be used in place of the sulfuric acid catalyst.

Propylparaben can be derived from the esterification of p-hydroxybenzoic acid and n-propanol in the presence of sulfuric acid.
Propylparaben and n-propanol in turn to the esterification reactor, and heat to dissolve. 
Add concentrated sulfuric acid slowly and heat for 8h of refluxion. 

Pour the reaction solution into 4% sodium carbonate solution before it is cooled. 
Constantly stir for precipitation and crystallization.
Then the crude product can be obtained after centrifugal filtration and washed to neutral. 

Finally the finished product is acquired after activated carbon decolorization and ethanol recrystallization. 
The method of preparing ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate can also be used as a reference.
HOC6H4COOH + C3H7OH [H2SO4] → HOC6H4COOC3H7 + H2O

The benzoate ester that is the propyl ester of Propylparaben. 
Also used as a food additive.
Colorless crystals or white powder or chunky white solid. 

Melting point 95-98°C. Odorless or faint aromatic odor. 
Propylparaben is the n-propyl ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. 
Propylparaben occurs as a natural substance found in many plants and some insects. 

Additionally, Propylparaben can be manufactured synthetically for use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and foods.
Propylparaben is a member of the class of parabens and can be used as a preservative in many water-based cosmetics, such as creams, lotions, shampoos, and bath products.
As a food additive, it has an E number, which is E216.

Sodium propyl p-hydroxybenzoate, the sodium salt of propylparaben, a compound with formula Na(C3H7(C6H4COO)O), is used similarly as a food additive and as an anti-fungal preservation agent. 
In 2010, the European Union Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety stated that the use of butylparaben and propylparaben as preservatives in finished cosmetic products as safe to the consumer, as long as the sum of their concentrations does not exceed 0.19%.

Propylparaben is in the paraben family of preservatives used by the food, pharmaceutical, and personal care product industries. 
Parabens mimic estrogen and can act as potential hormone (endocrine) system disruptors.
Propylparaben is a propyl ester of alpha-hydroxybenzoic acid. 

Propylparaben occurs naturally in many plants, fruits, and vegetables. 
Propylparaben is a member of the parabens group of compounds. 
Propylparaben is used for the preservation of food items like jams, sauces, drinks, and dairy products in addition to its use in cosmetic products.

Propylparaben with n-propanol, using an acid catalyst such as sulfuric acid and an excess of propanol. 
The materials are heated in a glass-lined reactor under reflux. 
The acid is then neutralized with caustic soda and the product is crystallized by cooling. 

The crystallized product is centrifuged, washed, dried under vacuum, milled and blended, all in corrosion-resistant equipment to avoid metallic contamination.
Propylparaben may be used as certified reference material for the quantification of the analyte in food samples and pharmaceuticals using chromatography techniques.
Propylparaben is widely used as an antimicrobial preservative in cosmetics, food products, and pharmaceutical formulations.

Propylparaben may be used alone, in combination with other paraben esters, or with other antimicrobial agents. 
Propylparaben is one of the most frequently used preservatives in cosmetics.
The parabens are effective over a wide pH range and have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity, although they are most effective against yeasts and molds.

Owing to the poor solubility of the parabens, the paraben salts, particularly the sodium salt, are frequently used in formulations. 
This may cause the pH of poorly buffered formulations to become more alkaline.
Propylparaben together with methylparaben (0.18% w/v) has been used for the preservation of various parenteral pharmaceutical formulations.

Propylparaben is highly valuable for water-based products - working in the background to preserve the formulations and increase their shelf lives. 
Its antimicrobial properties inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and molds, ensuring product integrity and safety. 
Commonly used in creams, lotions, makeup, shampoos, and other personal care items, Propylparaben preserves formulations by preventing spoilage and maintaining efficacy over time. 

Its role is crucial in preventing microbial contamination, especially in water-based formulations where microorganisms thrive. 
By extending product longevity, Propylparaben contributes to consumer satisfaction and regulatory compliance, facilitating the production of stable and safe cosmetic products for global markets.
Under FDA regulations, propylparaben is safe to use with a maximum of 0.1% of the weight of the finished food or 200–450 ppm for a variety of foods like coffee extracts, juices, jams, baked goods, and dairy products.

Propylparaben is even found naturally in a plant called Stocksia brahuica.
Propylparaben is often used as a food and cosmetic preservative as it has no odor or taste, and does not change the texture.
Propylparaben has some medicinal application as well as it has been used in pills, syrups, eyewashes, weight gain drinks, and recently has been discovered to have anticonvulsant activities suggesting it may be useful in the development of anticonvulsant medicine.

Recently, a study of combining plasma-activated water (PAW) with propylparaben show increased antimicrobial efficacy of PAW for fresh produce sanitation. 
Propylparaben is used for fresh produce sanitation. However, when used in food applications, its effectiveness decreased because of interfering substances like polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids. 
With propylparaben and PAW, bacteria undergo more oxidative stress and cell damage, increasing preservation of produce. 

For now, the potential health risk and residue level of propylparaben with this new method is still unknown.
Propylparaben is also used as a food additive, and is designated with the E number E216. 
Propylparaben is commonly used as a preservative in packaged baked goods, particularly pastries and tortillas.

Propylparaben is also a Standardized Chemical Allergen and is used in allergenic testing.
Propylparaben functions as a preservative in a wide range of cosmetic products. 
Cosmetic products like creams and lotions contain various natural extracts. 

These extracts are very beneficial for the skin but at the same time vulnerable to microbial contamination.  
Also, once open products that are used frequently by fingers are susceptible to microbial contamination. 
Plus, these products are generally stored at room temperature which also stimulates the growth of microbes. 

Such contamination can lead to product deterioration like foul smell/ breaking of emulsion. 
When such a contaminated product is unknowingly applied to the skin it may lead to various skin infections. 
Propylparaben inhibits the growth of microbes and protects the product from deterioration. 

Propylparaben adds up shelf life to the product. 
Propylparaben is used in formulations of make-up products like lipsticks, bath products, skin cleansing, moisturizing products, and other skin and hair care products.
Propylparaben is a paraben, which is a group of controversial preservatives that also includes butylparaben, isobutylparaben, methylparaben, and ethylparaben. 

All of these were at one time the most widely used group of preservatives used in cosmetics. 
Propylparabens were so popular because of their gentle, non-sensitizing, and highly effective profile in comparison to other preservatives but also because they were derived naturally from plants, a rare phenomenon for a preservative. 
Propylparabens are found in plants in the form of p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), a chemical that breaks down to become parabens for a plants own protection.

Over the past 10 years parabens have become criticized and condemned for use in cosmetics due to their alleged relation to health concerns affecting women and men. 
The research about parabens is conflicting and polarizing. 
Some research indicates they are safe as used in cosmetics and are preferred over other preservatives to keep a formula stable. 

These studies also showed parabens did not have any effect when compared to natural hormones in the body.
However, other research has concluded they are indeed problematic: Some studies determined a 100% concentration of parabens caused skin samples (meaning not intact skin on a person) to break down. 
However, these studies don’t apply to the tiny amount (1% or less) of parabens typically used in cosmetics. 

In low amounts, parabens were not shown to harm skin; in fact, they offer a benefit due to their ability to thwart the growth of mold, fungi, and harmful pathogens.
Other studies casting parabens in a negative light were based on force-feeding them to rats, a practice that is not only cruel but unrelated to what happens when parabens are applied to skin. 
There are studies indicating absorption of parabens through skin associated with application of skin care products, but those studies did not take into consideration that parabens are still used as food-grade preservatives or found naturally in plants and that could have been the source not the cosmetics. 

Melting point: 95-98 °C(lit.)
Boiling point: 133°C
Density: 1.0630
vapor pressure: 0.67 hPa (122 °C)
FEMA: 2951 | PROPYL P-HYDROXYBENZOATE
refractive index: 1.5050
Flash point: 180°(356°F)
storage temp.: Sealed in dry,Room Temperature
solubility: ethanol: soluble0.1M, clear, colorless
form: Crystalline Powder
pka: pKa 8.4 (Uncertain)
color: White
Specific Gravity: 0.789 (20/4℃)
Odor: at 100.00 %. sweet smoky burnt woody hawthorn
PH: 6-7 (H2O, 20°C) (saturated solution)
Odor Type: smoky
Water Solubility: <0.1 g/100 mL at 12 ºC
Merck: 14,7866
BRN: 1103245
Stability: Stable. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, strong bases.
InChIKey: QELSKZZBTMNZEB-UHFFFAOYSA-N
LogP: 2.8 at 20℃

Propylparaben, also known as propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, is a type of paraben commonly used as a preservative in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food products.
Propylparaben is a natural substance found in vegetables and fruits like flaxseeds, barley, and grapes. 
In cosmetics, it is synthetically made through esterification. 

Within this, p-hydroxybenzoic acid is reacted with propyl alcohol in the presence of an acid catalyst, such as sulfuric acid. 
This reaction forms propylparaben and water as byproducts. 
The propylparaben is then purified for use in the beauty industry. 

In its raw form, Propylparaben appears as a white powder or colorless crystals.
Propylparaben is a stable and non-volatile compound with antimicrobial properties and has been used as preservatives in food for over 50 years.
Propylparaben is typically used in a variety of water-based cosmetics and personal-care products.

Propylparaben is a white crystalline solid with a molecular weight of 202.18 amu.
Humans most often absorb the chemical through their skin or ingestion as it is in many cosmetic and food products as an antifungal preservative.
Propylparaben is metabolized in two major pathways leading to the production of either conjugated metabolites or hydrolysates (PHBA, PHHA).

These products are excreted from the body in urine.
Propylparaben is an effective antimicrobial, especially against green and blue molds on citrus fruits.
Its high solubility in water allows it to be applied to the fruits easily.

Propylparaben is one of the parabens family. 
Propylparabens are esters formed by p-hydroxybenzoic acid and an alcohol. 
They are largely used as biocides in cosmetics and toiletries, medicaments, or food. 

They have synergistic power with other biocides. Parabens can induce allergic contact dermatitis, mainly in chronic dermatitis and wounded skin.
One of the simplest ways to produce propylparaben is through the esterification of 4-hydroxy benzoic acid with propanol using an acidic catalyst.
The first major step includes the protonation of the carbonyl due to the acidic conditions. 

This protonation results in a positive charge on the carbonyl which will offset the electron density from the ester carbon atom, this allows the propanol to preform a nucleophilic attack on the carbonyl.
Propylparaben of the nucleophilic propanol is then transferred by the solvent to the esters hydroxyl group. 
The hydroxyl can then act as a good leaving group and be expelled from the tetrahedral intermediate as water, allowing the ester carbonyl group to reform. 

Finally, deprotonation of the reformed carbonyl group will produce the final ester product, propylparaben.
Propylparaben is an antibacterial preservative that can be produced by plants and bacteria. 
Propylparaben is commonly used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and foods. 

Propylparaben disrupts follicular growth and steroidogenic function by altering cell cycle, apoptosis and steroidogenic pathways. 
Propylparaben also reduced sperm count and motility in rats.
Propylparaben is one of the most commonly used paraben in cosmetic formulation.

Propylparaben can be found in moisturizers, shampoos, conditioners, makeups, shaving products, and many more.
In cosmetic products, propylparaben is typically combined with other parabens (such as methylparaben) or other preservatives to protect against a broader range of microorganisms.
The chemical stability in room temperature and wide pH range (4.5–7.5) is advantageous to prolong a product shelf life. 

Under FDA regulations, the maximum use of concentration for propylparaben is 25%.
However, cosmetics do not require testing by the FDA prior to sale.
While there is no conclusive evidence of harm to human health from propylparaben, more cosmetic companies are creating paraben-free lines, specifically in shampoos. 

Since Propylparabens can easily absorb through skin, daily use is believed to cause toxic accumulation in the body that might be harmful. 
Some people may also experience allergic reaction to parabens including redness, irritation, itchiness, flaking, and hives.
Used since the mid-1920s as a preservative, parabens are present in eyewashes, pills, cough syrups, injectable solutions, contraceptives, and even weight-gain drinks.

Unlike cosmetics where propylparaben is mostly used in the surface, propylparaben is ingested and absorbed. 
According to a law from the EEC (European Economic Community), the maximum level of parabens in pharmaceutical products is 1% (w/w), much stricter and defined than cosmetics. 
Propylparaben also cannot be used alone in ophthalmic products, such as eyewash because it may cause irritation at the effective concentration level to have antimicrobial activities.

A MES (Maximal Electroshock) test also shows anticonvulsant activity in propylparaben. 
Since propylparaben has minimum to no toxicity and well absorbed in the GI tract, it can potentially be develop to new anticonvulsant medicine to control seizures.
Propylparaben is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The European Commission’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has assessed its safety in cosmetic products, recommending a maximum concentration limit of 0.14% when used alone and 0.8% for the sum of all parabens in the product.
Propylparaben can cause allergic skin reactions in sensitive individuals, such as contact dermatitis.
Concerns have been raised about the potential of parabens, including propylparaben, to act as endocrine disruptors by mimicking estrogen. 

However, scientific studies have produced mixed results, and regulatory bodies consider its use safe within specified limits.
Propylparaben is considered biodegradable and tends to break down in the environment, reducing the risk of long-term environmental persistence.
Propylparaben can be toxic to aquatic organisms, which is a concern for environmental pollution, especially in water bodies.

The antimicrobial activity of propylparaben is reduced considerably in the presence of nonionic surfactants as a result of micellization. 
Absorption of propylparaben by plastics has been reported, with the amount absorbed dependent upon the type of plastic and the vehicle. 
Magnesium aluminum silicate, magnesium trisilicate, yellow iron oxide, and ultramarine blue have also been reported to absorb propylparaben, thereby reducing preservative efficacy.

Propylparaben is discolored in the presence of iron and is subject to hydrolysis by weak alkalis and strong acids.
Propylparaben and methylparaben are affirmed GRAS direct food substances in the USA at levels up to 0.1%. 
All esters except the benzyl ester are allowed for injection in Japan. 

In cosmetics, the EU and Brazil allow use of each paraben at 0.4%, but the total of all parabens may not exceed 0.8%. 
Accepted as a food additive in Europe. Included in the FDA Inactive Ingredients Database (IM, IV, and SC injections; inhalations; ophthalmic preparations; oral capsules, solutions, suspensions, and tablets; otic, rectal, topical, and vaginal preparations).
Included in parenteral and nonparenteral medicines licensed in the UK. Included in the Canadian List of Acceptable Non-medicinal Ingredients.

Storage:
Aqueous propylparaben solutions at pH 3–6 can be sterilized by autoclaving, without decomposition.
At pH 3–6, aqueous solutions are stable (less than 10% decomposition) for up to about 4 years at room temperature, while solutions at pH 8 or above are subject to rapid hydrolysis (10% or more after about 60 days at room temperature).

Uses Of Propylparaben:
Propylparaben Used as preservatives and antioxidants, and also used in the pharmaceutical industry.
Propylparaben is used as the antimicrobial preservative in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
Propylparaben is used as antiseptic and antimicrobial.

Propylparaben is used as the preservatives of food, cosmetics and medicines.
Propylparaben is used to prevent microbial contamination.
Added to maintain product integrity and prevent spoilage.

Found in products like foundation, mascara, and lipstick to ensure longevity and safety.
Included in creams, ointments, and lotions for skin application to prevent microbial growth.
Propylparaben is used in syrups, suspensions, and tablets to extend shelf life.

Sometimes used in parenteral formulations to ensure sterility and safety.
Added to cakes, pastries, and bread to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
Propylparaben is used in products like cheese and yogurt to inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria.

Included in soft drinks, fruit juices, and other beverages to maintain freshness.
Helps in maintaining product safety and efficacy by preventing bacterial contamination.
Propylparaben is used to prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

Included in formulations to prevent microbial growth during storage and use.
Used to prevent microbial contamination and spoilage.
Used in various animal care products to ensure product stability and prevent microbial growth.

Included in cleaning agents and detergents to maintain product safety and efficacy.
Used to ensure the safety and extend the shelf life of products designed for infants.
Included to prevent microbial contamination and maintain product quality.

Helps in maintaining product stability and effectiveness by preventing the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Added to prevent spoilage and ensure product safety.
Propylparaben is used to maintain the integrity of the product during storage and use.

Included in some ophthalmic solutions to prevent microbial growth and ensure product safety.
Used to maintain sterility and prevent contamination.
Added to prevent bacterial and fungal contamination.
Disinfectants: Used in various disinfectant formulations to ensure effectiveness and longevity.

Included to prevent microbial growth and ensure product safety for animals.
Propylparaben is used in veterinary formulations to maintain sterility and efficacy.
Found in surface cleaners and disinfectants to prevent microbial growth.

Propylparaben is used to maintain product stability and effectiveness.
Sometimes incorporated into food packaging to extend the shelf life of packaged foods by preventing microbial contamination.
Used in some alcoholic beverages to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.

Included in drinks like flavored waters and energy drinks to ensure freshness.
Propylparaben is used to maintain the stability and safety of these products during storage.
Included in some wound care products to prevent microbial growth.

Propylparaben is used in the preservation of medical devices to ensure sterility and safety.
Used to maintain the sterility and effectiveness of various laboratory reagents and solutions.
Included in microbiological media to prevent contamination during the cultivation of microorganisms.

Safety profile Of Propylparaben:
Propylparaben and other parabens are widely used as antimicrobial preservatives in cosmetics, food products, and oral and topical pharmaceutical formulations.
Propylparaben and methylparaben have been used as preservatives in injections and ophthalmic preparations; however, they are now generally regarded as being unsuitable for these types of formulations owing to the irritant potential of the parabens. 
Systemically, no adverse reactions to parabens have been reported, although they have been associated with hypersensitivity reactions. 

The WHO has set an estimated acceptable total daily intake for methyl, ethyl, and propyl parabens at up to 10 mg/kg body-weight.
Propylparaben, among other parabens, has been raising concerns on its possible interaction and disruption of estrogen in the endocrine system Exposure to high levels of propylparaben has been correlated to lower sperm and testosterone production in males in animal studies, with one other study showing that it can even act as an effective spermicide.

Animal studies of propylparaben in the body show that propylparaben is metabolized from the GI tract and excreted rapidly through urine with no accumulation in the body. 
Despite parabens' interaction with the endocrine system, it has not been shown to be significantly correlated with breast cancer.
With cracked or damaged skins, the use of propylparaben in cosmetics or skincare can result in skin sensitization; however, for normal skin, it is considered safe.

As of May 2023, New York began considering banning the use of propylparaben because studies in humans and animals indicate that it acts as an endocrine disruptor and affects reproductive health.
In October 2023, the Governor of California signed a bill into law outlawing the use of propylparaben in foods by 2027.
The new law bans the manufacture, sale, and distribution of propylparaben and three other additives (brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, and Red 3). 

This is the first law in the U.S. to ban it and will possibly have nationwide effects.
Propylparaben is safe for external use at lower concentrations of 0.01 to 0.3%. 
Propylparaben is non-sensitizing and gentle on the skin and does not have any major side effects. 

However, higher concentrations and/or ingestion may cause severe health concerns including allergy and hormone disruption. 
Propylparaben is important to follow safety guidelines and perform patch tests before widespread use.