Isobutylparaben
A paraben preservative named in Palau's list of reef-toxic chemicals.
Banned in
- Palau
Where it’s restricted
Named in the law or guidance
| Location | Status | Since |
|---|---|---|
| Palau law text ↗ | In force | January 1, 2020 |
Why it’s regulated
The EU prohibited isobutylparaben in cosmetics in 2014 under Commission Regulation (EU) No 358/2014 of 9 April 2014, because industry submitted little safety data, so the SCCS could not evaluate its human risk, and it might be used as an antimicrobial.
What the reef research says
Danovaro et al. (2008) tested butylparaben on Acropora corals and found it caused complete bleaching even at very low concentrations. Isobutylparaben is not among the ingredients the study reported as causing bleaching, so its effect on coral is unknown from this source.
- Danovaro et al. 2008, Environmental Health Perspectives: Sunscreens cause coral bleaching by promoting viral infections (PMC2291018)
- Commission Regulation (EU) No 358/2014 of 9 April 2014 amending Annexes II and V to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (EUR-Lex)
Products that contain it (1)
Search these products that list isobutylparaben →
Related ingredients: Butylparaben, Isopropylparaben, Propylparaben, Benzylparaben
Last reviewed October 14, 2026.