Other Names: PABA, 4-aminobenzoic acid, p-aminobenzoic acid.

Mode of usage pertaining to the discussion below: Topical application in cosmetics and personal care products.

What it is:  As an older generation UVB filter, PABA was an important ingredient in the history of sun care products but has largely been replaced by newer-generation UV filters that offer better stability, broader protection and fewer safety concerns.

Safety in special situations:

Not recommended for use by pregnant women

Not recommended for use by nursing mothers

Not recommended for babies

Not recommended for children

Not recommended for people with a history of/at risk of cancer

Notes:

• PABA is classified as a potential endocrine disruptor and carcinogen.
  

Environmental and Ecological Concerns:

May cause adverse effects to aquatic ecosystem in large amounts

Attributes:

Not listed as an ingredient to be comedogenic based on currently available data

Not listed as an ingredient to be avoided by people with acne prone skin based on currently available data

Notes:

• PABA is classified as a potential skin sensitizer.

Safety Profile (Based on regional guidelines):

Conclusion
PABA is not currently approved under many regional guidelines, and its safety remains uncertain.

References

1. https://ec.europa.eu
2. https://www.aseancosmetics.org
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
4. https://pubs.acs.org
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
6. https://www.redjournal.org
7. https://academic.oup.com
8. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov
9. https://www.aseancosmetics.org

Disclaimer: The above information is based on ongoing toxicology research at CHOSEN®’s R&D. We do our best to update the information as and when the latest studies are available. If you have any inputs regarding the above information, please email us at ingredients@chosenstore.in