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antioxidant

Propyl Gallate

Restricted·Strong evidence

Propyl Gallate is a synthetic antioxidant, the propyl ester of gallic acid, added in small amounts to fats and oils in a formula to slow rancidity. CIR reviewed human patch-test data and lowered its recommended safe-use ceiling over time, most recently to 0.1%, after finding the ingredient can act as a contact sensitizer at higher concentrations. Sensitization here is a documented reaction in a subset of exposed people at the higher concentrations once allowed, not a majority outcome at current permitted levels.

Worth knowing

  • Known contact sensitizer for some

Products with Propyl Gallate

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.