Benzylparaben
Benzyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, Benzyl parahydroxybenzoate.
- CAS
- 94-18-8
- EC
- 202-311-9
- Sectors
- Personal Care & Cosmetics, Pharma & Healthcare
Benzylparaben (CAS 94-18-8) is a specialty antimicrobial ester of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, supplied as a white to light yellow fine powder, and is used as a secondary biocide in niche cosmetic and medical applications, including skin treatments, hair formulations and topical drug delivery research. It provides High-Performance protection against various strains of resistant microorganisms.
This Technical Grade preservative is valued for its unique solubility and efficacy in specialized systems. It is also used as a Research Grade standard in analytical chemistry.
In personal care items, it acts as a Cosmetic Grade biocide that enhances the preservative system's robustness. It is particularly effective in products requiring deep oil-phase stabilization.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C14H12O3 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 228.24 g/mol |
| Appearance | white to light yellow fine powder |
| Form | Powder |
| Color | White to Almost white |
| Melting point | 111 °C |
| Boiling point | 170°C |
| Density | 1.1799 |
| Water solubility | 92mg/L(25 °C) |
| Flash point | 167°C |
| GHS signal word | Warning · Irritant / harmful |
| HS code | 29181990 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade, Cosmetic Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Benzylparaben
Applications
- Niche Cosmetics: Used as a secondary biocide in specialized skin treatments and hair formulations.
- Analytical Chemistry: Serves as a reference standard for the detection of paraben esters in labs.
- Pharmaceutical Research: Investigated for use in topical drug delivery systems requiring stable esters.
Safety & Risks
Classified as a Skin and Eye Irritant. Proper PPE, including Lab Coats and Chemical Gloves, should be worn to prevent accidental exposure.
Packaging
Available in 1 kg, 5 kg, and 25 kg containers depending on application scale.