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Best Non-Toxic Tanning Oil in 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
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What you should know when choosing non-toxic tanning oil on Welpr:
- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
- We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
- The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
Find Non-Toxic Tanning Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Deep Tanning Spray Oil Sunscreen with Coconut Oil - Banana Boat
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.38
Product Details
- Infused with carrot and banana extracts and coconut oil
- Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, and phthalates
- Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Smells
- Long-lasting
Cons Mentioned
- Packaging
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 0.5%, Octisalate 4.0% Inactive Ingredients: Mineral Oil, Diisopropyl Adipate, Fragrance, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Zea Mays (Corn) Oil, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Fruit Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Dark Tanning Exotic Oil - Australian Gold
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.99
Product Details
- Contains carrot oil to intensify tan and lend a darker shade while moisturizing the skin.
- Non-greasy, quick-absorbing formula for a convenient and enhanced glow.
- Does not contain sunscreen, allowing for a quicker, more intense browning effect.
- Formulated with Kakadu Plum extract, which has a high content of Vitamin C, and Tea Tree Oil, a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and cleanses the skin.
- Infused with Cocoa Dreams fragrance, a mix of coconut scents, for a fresh, beach-like scent throughout the day.
- Skin conditioning and moisturizing with premium oils for a non-greasy feel.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Hydrating
- Scent
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Messy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cetyl Acetate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Isopropyl Lanolate, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Vegetable Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Glyceine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol, BHT, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Dark Tanning Oil - Hawaiian Tropic
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.97
Product Details
- Infused with exotic island botanicals and a rare blend of nature's rich oils
- Protected by broad-spectrum UVA or UVB sunscreens
- Includes nourishing antioxidants
- Has a lightweight feel on the skin
- Designed to pamper and nourish the skin, enhancing its radiance
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Soothing
- Quick
Cons Mentioned
- Greasy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Avobenzone 1.0%, Octocrylene 3.0% Inactive Ingredients: Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Mineral Oil, Isopropyl Myristate, Silica, Fragrance, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Tocopheryl, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Passiflora Incarnata Fruit Extract, Plumeria Acutifolia Flower Extract, Psidium Guajava Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil - Sun Bum
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.50
Product Details
- SPF 15 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Moisturizing tanning oil with ingredients like Aloe Vera, Green Tea Butter, Marula, Argan, Coconut, and Avocado Oil
- Water resistant and compliant with Hawaii 104 Reef Act, free from Octinoxate and Oxybenzone
- Can be applied liberally to the body while avoiding the eye area; recommended to use with regular sunscreen for full protection
- Free from Gluten, Cruelty, and Parabens, suitable for all skin types
- Designed for intense sun exposure
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Moisturizing
- Fragrant
Cons Mentioned
- Greasy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Avobenzone - 3.00%, Homosalate - 10.00%, Octisalate - 5.00%, Octocrylene - 10.00%, Inactive Ingredients: Mineral Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Powder, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Fragrance.
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Tanning Oil - b.tan
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.97
Product Details
- Contains tan accelerating actives to speed up tanning, providing deeper, darker results with less sun exposure.
- Includes ultra-moisturizing oils to keep skin hydrated.
- 100% vegan and free from parabens.
- 100% cruelty-free, not tested on animals.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Fast-acting
- Pleasant-scent
Cons Mentioned
- Uneven
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua, Eau), Glycerin, Dihydroxyacetone, Algin, Calcium Citrate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder, Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Hexylene Glycol, Peg-8 Dimethicone, Fragrance (Parfum), Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Macadamia Integrifolia (Macadamia) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Quick Dry Tanning Oil - Aloe Up
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.99
Product Details
- Aloe-based skin care formulation with 35% aloe gel offering protection, soothing, and hydration
- Contains SPF 6 with four active ingredients for skin protection and a healthy tan
- Features a non-greasy texture that is quick-drying and does not irritate skin or sting eyes
- Cruelty-free and reef-safe formula with a light tropical scent
- Recommended application 15 minutes before sun exposure with reapplication every 2 hours
- Designed to nourish and hydrate the skin while tanning
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Moisturizing
- Smells
- Non-greasy
Cons Mentioned
- Greasy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredients (Sunscreen) Avobenzone (1.0%), Octyl Salicylate (3.0%), Homosalate (1.0%), Octocrylene (.85%) Inactive Ingredients Aloe Oil Extract, Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Banana Oil, Apricot Oil, Almond Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Ultra Mist Dry Tanning Oil - Banana Boat
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$23.88
Product Details
- Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, and phthalates
- Easy application form
- Fast drying
- Very water resistant, up to 80 minutes
- Easy grip spray can design
- Contains argan oil for a silky-smooth skin feel
- Provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection
- Non-greasy and lightweight formula
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Non-greasy
- Hydrating
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Short-lived
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 1.5%, Homosalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 3.5%, Inactive Ingredients: Alcohol Denat, Isobutane, Isododecane, Diisopropyl Adipate, Mineral Oil, Lauryl Peg-8 Dimethicone, Phenylisopropyl Dimethicone, Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate/Isostearate/Dimer Dilinoleate Crosspolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Fragrance, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Panthenol, Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Natural Tanning Oil - Dr. Mercola
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$8.97
Product Details
- Made without artificial fragrances or potentially toxic ingredients.
- Hypoallergenic, suitable for all skin types.
- Formulated with plant-based ingredients.
- Includes a blend of nine organic ingredients such as Coconut Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Cocoa Butter.
- Promotes a rich golden tan while nourishing and moisturizing the skin.
- Does not contain sunscreen and is not designed to prevent sunburn.
- Free from synthetic chemical preservatives, parabens, emulsifiers, and fragrances.
- 100% biodegradable and planet-friendly.
- Packaged in a fine mist sprayer bottle for even application and effortless coverage.
- Product is waterproof and leaves no greasy residue after application.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Moisturizing
- Natural
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Scent
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Lecithin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Prunus Amygdalus (Sweet Almond) Oil, Lanolin, Tocopherol, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Ascorbyl Palmitate
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Isle Body Oil with SPF 30 and Squalane - Cay Skin
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$43.17
Product Details
- Equipped with UV protection SPF 30.
- Formulated with hydrating oils including squalane, coconut, argan, grapeseed, and meadowfoam seed oils to strengthen and protect skin’s moisture barrier.
- Provides a healthy-looking sheen without a greasy feeling.
- Lightly scented with a naturally derived warm vanilla and amber fragrance.
- Targeted for unisex use.
- Designed for kids's usage.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 10%, Inactive Ingredients: Alcohol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Octyldodecanol, Dibutyl Adipate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Diethylhexyl Carbonate, Diisopropyl Sebacate, Polyester-8, Lauryl Lactate, Polyamide-3, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Alaria Esculenta Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Salicornia Herbacea Extract, Squalane, Glycerin, Raphanus Sativus (Radish) Seed Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Oil, Cupressus Sempervirens Leaf/Nut/Stem Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Myroxylon Pereirae (Balsam Peru) Oil, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Diethylhexyl Syringlidenemalonate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Citric Acid
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Chardonnay Oil SPF 30 + Air Freshener Bundle - Vacation
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$23.00
Product Details
- Travel-friendly, SPF 30 sunscreen oil made from Chardonnay grapeseed oil providing hydration and protection with a subtle shine.
- Invisible on all skin tones, enhancing skin appearance without stickiness.
- Formulated with natural oils including Marula, Passion Fruit Seed Oils, Jojoba, Shea Oil, and Vitamin E.
- Incorporates the "Grand Cru ‘86" scent developed with ARQUISTE Parfumeur, offering a sophisticated aroma.
- Complies with the Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104, featuring broad spectrum SPF 30 actives.
- Contains Bisabolol, an ingredient known for its soothing properties.
- Formulated to be lightweight, ensuring a clean user experience without a greasy residue.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Moisturizing
- Light
- Soothing
Cons Mentioned
- Ineffective
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Bisabolol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Oil, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Caprylic/ Capric Triglyceride, Fragrance, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Octyldodecanol, Passiflora Edulis (Passionfruit) Seed Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Vitis Vinifera (Chardonnay Grape) Seed Oil, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Tanning Oil
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Phenoxyethanol
2-Phenoxyethanol is a hazardous substance toxic by all routes of exposure, and is used widely in products like cosmetics, soaps, and inks, among others. The effects of exposure to this faintly aromatic, colorless, oily liquid can include eye irritation, headaches, tremors, and CNS depression. It's crucial to rinse exposed eyes with tepid water for at least 15 minutes and to wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water in case of contact. The substance requires preheating before ignition can occur, and if involved in a fire, gentle water spray can extinguish the fire by inducing frothing.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Sodium laureth sulfate, derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, is a surfactant used in sudsy products like toothpaste, detergents, and shampoos. While it acts as a cleansing and emulsifying agent, it can sometimes contain toxic impurities such as 1,4-dioxane. This chemical has raised health concerns due to its potential to cause skin, lung, and eye irritation, organ toxicity, and, primarily because of contamination by 1,4 dioxane, cancer.
Sources:
The Dirty Dozen: Sodium Laureth Sulfate, 15 Toxic Trespassers, SKIP PRODUCTS MADE WITH SLES (AND SLS, TOO!), Campaign for Safe Costmetics: 1,4-DIOXANE, WHAT IS SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE: CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, A new formula for a mild body cleanser: sodium laureth sulphate supplemented with sodium laureth carboxylate and lauryl glucoside,
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is recognised as a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant according to ICSC. It may cause allergic reactions and eye irritation as stated by the HSDB. Exposure may even result in eye burns, as per CAMEO. Depending on its form - which may range from a solid (90-98% purity), to a paste (30-41%), or an aqueous solution (28-50%) - it can significantly irritate skin and eyes, with adverse effects escalating with increased concentration. Despite these hazards, it is not a skin sensitizer according to CHEMINFO, while eChemPortal: ERMA and MSDSonline endorse its classification as an irritant.
Phthalate
Phthalates, linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and cancer, are banned in the European Union but remain prevalent in U.S. cosmetics. They are widely used in personal care products, such as nail polish, fragrances, and eyelash glue and other products. A significant loophole allows phthalates to be added to fragrances without disclosure. Health concerns include endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity.
Sources:
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Phthalates, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Phthalates in Cosmetics, Phthalates in cosmetic and personal care products: concentrations and possible dermal exposure, A Survey of Phthalates and Parabens in Personal Care Products from the United States and Its Implications for Human Exposure, Phthalates Factsheet, BPA and Phthalates: Chemicals found in our homes
Methylparaben
Methylparaben is an antimicrobial preservative used in food, drugs, and cosmetics. Some individuals can develop contact dermatitis on skin exposure, and allergic reactions have been reported on ingestion, though the evidence is not conclusive. Data from animal studies suggest that methylparaben is practically non-toxic and non-irritating in normal skin conditions, with high thresholds for observed adverse effects. However, it showed chromosome aberrations in a cell assay and variable results in different uterotrophic assays. An ecotoxicity study found changes in the expression of certain genes at specific concentrations in male medaka, a type of fish.
Butylparaben
Butylparaben, a chemical used in various products, has been shown to cause skin irritation in humans and potential sensitization in dermatitis patients. Animal studies indicate that it has low to moderate oral toxicity and can cause damage to the liver, spleen, and thymus. It can also lead to cell proliferation in rats' stomachs, though it was not found to be carcinogenic or mutagenic. However, it may negatively impact sperm viability and activity, as demonstrated in different in vitro and in vivo studies. Lastly, it proposed weaker aquatic toxicity compared to parabens with longer alkyl chains, but still showed estrogenic effects in certain fish species.
Ethylparaben
Ethylparaben is a chemical used as a preservative in various products including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and adhesives. It exhibits low toxicity in humans and animals, but can cause skin irritation, particularly when applied to damaged skin, and may worsen pre-existing skin conditions. Despite causing cell proliferation in rats' forestomachs and chromosomal aberrations in a hamster ovary cell test, it has shown no evidence of causing cancer. However, it was found to be toxic to fetuses at doses toxic to the mother, though it did not cause malformations (nonteratogenic). Interestingly, while it impacted sperm viability in lab conditions, it showed no negative effects on mouse sperm in actuality.
Sources:
Campaign For Safe Cosmetics: Parabens, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Parabens At A Glance, What to Know About Parabens, The effects of ethylparaben and propylparaben on the development and fecundity of Drosophila melanogaster, Ethylparaben, Amended Safety Assessment of Parabens as Used in Cosmetics, WHAT ARE PARABENS: CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, Biomonitoring Summary
Propylparaben
Propylparaben is a stable, non-volatile compound utilized as an antimicrobial preservative in food, drugs, and cosmetics. Human exposure can cause sensitization especially if applied to damaged skin and may cause contact sensitivity with high concentrations. Extensive animal studies reveal that propylparaben is relatively non-toxic, yet it can mildly irritate skin, affect sperm counts in substantial levels, and trigger cell proliferation in the forestomach of rats. However, it is not carcinogenic, mutagenic, or clastogenic, and a significant no-observed-adverse-effect level was reported in rats. Ecotoxicity studies show that it can lead to an increase in plasma vitellogenin levels in rainbow trout and a significant decline of vitellogenin production in zebrafish at varying concentrations.
Isobutylparaben
Isobutylparaben belongs to the paraben family of preservatives used in the food, pharmaceutical, and personal care product industries. Parabens mimic estrogen and have been found in breast cancer tumors in some studies. Parabens are commonly found in various personal care products and foods and have been associated with endocrine disruption, skin cancer risk, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential behavioral changes in offspring when exposed during gestation.
Isopropylparaben
Isopropylparaben belongs to the parabens family of preservatives utilized in the food, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors. Parabens have estrogen-mimicking properties and pose a potential risk as endocrine disruptors. Research has detected parabens in the breast cancer tumors of a significant number of studied women, raising concerns about their safety and hormonal effects.
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