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PABA

Moderate concern

PABA is no longer approved as a sunscreen UV filter in the U.S. (FDA proposed rule 2019).

Found in

9 products

What it is

Para-aminobenzoic acid; a compound that was historically used as UV filter in sunscreens and as supplement.

Not approved as a food additive; previously used as UV filter (delisted by FDA in 2019 from approved sunscreen actives).

Why it's flagged

photoallergic reactions
delisted as sunscreen ingredient
case reports of liver toxicity at high doses

What regulators actually say

"Two ingredients (PABA and trolamine salicylate) are proposed as not GRASE for use in sunscreens due to safety issues."

FDA — FDA advances new proposed regulation to make sure sunscreens are safe and effective (Feb 2019) — fda.gov

Regulatory status

United States — FDA

Removed from approved OTC sunscreen monograph; not approved as food additive.

European Union — EFSA

Not authorized as food additive in EU.

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