Simultaneous Estimation of P-hydroxybenzoic Acid and Its Esters in Wash- off / Leave- on Cosmetic Products by High- Performance Thin Layer Chromatography

Parabens, alkyl esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, including methyl paraben (MP), ethyl paraben (EP), propyl paraben (PP) and butyl paraben (BP), have been widely used as antimicrobial agents. Recently, parabens in cosmetic products have received keen attention, because the elevated amounts of parabens in topical products have been shown to induce allergic contact dermatitis to cancer. The potential harm of parabens to consumers increases especially when consume in large quantities. This demonstrates that any of the parabens from the long-term, low-dose levels to which humans are exposed can be absorbed and retained in human body tissues without hydrolysis by tissue esterases to the common metabolite phydroxybenzoic acid. So the objective of our study is to estimate simultaneously the p-hydroxybenzoic acid and its esters in commercial wash-off (Shampoo)/leave-on (Lipsticks) cosmetic products by highperformance thin layer chromatographic method. Eleven brand of shampoos analysed for the estimation. All the products are contains the parabens above the limit. In none of the labels of the products the name and quantity of the preservatives were indicated except Garnier Fructis brand in which use of methyl paraben was indicated on the label. In cosmetics methyl and propyl parabens are used as a preservative at a concentration of 0.4% and PHB at 0.8% w/w respectively. Regulatory authorities should regulate the limits and implement strict regulations on these products before it reaches the consumers.