Methylparaben
What Methylparaben is & what it does
A well-studied, effective preservative that protects formulas from bacteria and fungi at low levels. Despite past controversy, it is considered safe at cosmetic concentrations and rarely irritating.
What is Methylparaben and what does it do in sunscreen?
Methylparaben is a preservative. In sunscreen it protects the formula from bacteria and fungi at very low levels, keeping the product safe and stable over its shelf life. It does no sun protection itself; it is purely there to keep the water-based formula from spoiling.
Is Methylparaben safe?
Yes. Methylparaben is one of the most studied preservatives in cosmetics and is considered safe at the low concentrations used in products. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has assessed parabens and supported their safety as used. Despite past media controversy, it is effective, used in tiny amounts, and rarely irritating.
Does Methylparaben clog pores?
No. Methylparaben is a preservative used at very low levels, not an oil or wax, so it is not considered comedogenic. It will not contribute to clogged pores. Any breakouts are more likely linked to the emollients or filters in a formula.
Are parabens like Methylparaben bad for you?
The weight of evidence does not support the alarm parabens once attracted. Methylparaben is well studied, used at low levels, and judged safe as used by cosmetic safety reviewers. Some brands have dropped parabens for marketing reasons rather than proven risk, and methylparaben remains one of the gentlest, most effective preservatives available.
What else is Methylparaben called on an ingredient list?
It appears under its INCI name, Methylparaben, and may also be referenced by its E-number, E218, in food and regulatory contexts. It usually sits near the end of an ingredient list with the other preservatives. It is often paired with related parabens or other preservatives to cover a broad range of microbes.
Sunscreens with Methylparaben
We rate 632 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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Bielenda Hydro Lipidium Maximum Tolerance Moisturizing And Protective Barrier Cream SPF 50
94/100
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Bielenda Professional Supremelab Sun Protect Moisturizing Protective Cream SPF 50
94/100
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Bielenda dr medica Overpigmentation SPF50
94/100
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Cien Sun Lotion Ultra Sensitive SPF 50+ (2023)
93/100
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Ziaja Med Anti-Wrinkle Cream SPF 50+
91/100
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Ziaja Antioxidant Vitamin C Sunscreen
91/100
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Ziaja Med Tinted Cream Natural SPF 50+
90/100
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Ziaja Pro Moisturizing Face Cream With Spf 50+
90/100
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Ziaja Med SPF 50+ Anti-wrinkle Cream
90/100
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Ziaja Med Matifying Cream SPF 50
90/100