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Skincare Ingredient

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Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

In Skincare: Is Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects

Safety (overall safety)
3/5 — Moderate risk
Irritancy (skin irritation)
4/5 — High risk

Safety Information

Preservative; associated with skin sensitization/allergic contact dermatitis in some users—higher risk if sensitive or used in leave-on products (restricted concentrations in cosmetics).

Overview

Ingredient Profile

Iodopropynyl butylcarbamate is a synthetic preservative commonly used in low concentrations (0.1% or less) to prevent microbial growth in cosmetic formulations. It is often combined with other preservatives, particularly in water-based products, to broaden its spectrum of activity and ensure product stability. This ingredient helps maintain the safety and integrity of skincare products by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold.
Classifications
Preservative

Data & Research

Scientific Facts

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate is a globally recognized preservative with a long history of use in various applications, including cosmetics and household products like paints, cements, and inks. It’s frequently combined with other preservatives to create a broad-spectrum preservative system effective against a wide range of microorganisms.

Common Uses

Formulation in Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate prevents or slows the growth of bacteria, helping to maintain the quality and stability of cosmetics and personal care products and preventing spoilage.

Role of Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

Active Cosmetic Mechanisms

PRESERVATIVE

Product Protector

Prevents microbial contamination and extends shelf life

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Preservatives inhibit microbial growth through various mechanisms: disrupting cell membranes (phenoxyethanol, parabens), releasing formaldehyde (DMDM hydantoin), chelating essential nutrients, or creating unfavorable pH. Broad-spectrum preservatives target bacteria, yeast, and mold. Efficacy depends on concentration, pH, formulation type, and microbial challenge. Must pass preservative efficacy testing (PET/challenge testing) meeting USP, EP, or JP standards.

Products

containing Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

776 formulations
Men+Care Clean Comfort Body and Face Wash
Men+Care Clean Comfort Body and Face Wash
Dove · body-skincare
Men+Care Deep Clean + Facial Cleanser Exfoliating Face Wash
Men+Care Deep Clean + Facial Cleanser Exfoliating Face Wash
Dove · exfoliators
Ultra-Calming Fragrance-Free Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF 15
Ultra-Calming Fragrance-Free Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF 15
Aveeno · moisturizer
Deep Moisture Body & Face Wash
Deep Moisture Body & Face Wash
Dove · cleanser
"Electric Feels" Whipped Shave Butter
"Electric Feels" Whipped Shave Butter
Soap Cute California · body-skincare
Redness Relief Night Creme
Redness Relief Night Creme
Eucerin · moisturizer
Men + Care Blue Eucalyptus and Birch Beauty Bar
Men + Care Blue Eucalyptus and Birch Beauty Bar
Dove · body-skincare
Blush & Glow Strawberry Freshness Gel Face Wash With Strawberry Extracts
Blush & Glow Strawberry Freshness Gel Face Wash With Strawberry Extracts
Lakme · cleanser
"Cocoa Kisses" Whipped Sugar Body Scrub
"Cocoa Kisses" Whipped Sugar Body Scrub
Soap Cute California · body-skincare
Positively Radiant Daily Face Moisturizer For Even Skin Tone, SPF 15
Positively Radiant Daily Face Moisturizer For Even Skin Tone, SPF 15
Aveeno · moisturizer
See all products with Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

References

Scientific sources

[1]

Preservatives for Cosmetics. Carol Stream: Allured Pub Corp. 2006

[2]

pages 51-52.

Semantic Analysis

Similar Ingredients

Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate — common questions

What is Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate in skincare?

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate (IPBC) is a white or slightly off-white crystalline powder containing iodine. It’s used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products to inhibit bacterial growth.

What does Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate do? / Functions of Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate?

Common functions: PRESERVATIVE.

What is the comedogenic rating of Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate? / Is Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate comedogenic?

The comedogenic rating of Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate has not been established in our database.

Does it clog pores?
No Rating Available

Whether Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.

Is Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate safe for skin?
3 3/5 — Moderate risk

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate has a safety rating of 3 out of 5. A rating of 3 indicates moderate safety considerations. Note: Preservative; associated with skin sensitization/allergic contact dermatitis in some users—higher risk if sensitive or used in leave-on products (restricted concentrations in cosmetics).

Is Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate good for sensitive skin?
4 4/5 — High risk

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate has an irritancy rating of 4 out of 5. A rating of 4 means it has high irritation potential.

What are the side effects of Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate in skincare?

Known considerations: Preservative; associated with skin sensitization/allergic contact dermatitis in some users—higher risk if sensitive or used in leave-on products (restricted concentrations in cosmetics). Additional risks: skin irritation (irritancy rating 4/5).

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