Evaluation of Methyl Paraben Content in One Branded and Two Local Lipstick Products using HPLC Quantification

Abstract

Methyl paraben, a member of the paraben family, is widely used as a preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products due to its antimicrobial properties. Lipstick, a ubiquitous cosmetic product, often contains methyl paraben as a preservative. The presence of methyl paraben, a common preservative in cosmetic products, has raised concerns due to its potential health effects on human health, including endocrine disruption and allergic reactions. Given the frequent application of lipstick and its potential for ingestion, evaluating the concentration of methyl paraben in these products is crucial for assessing consumer exposure and ensuring product safety. In the present study, we employed High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to quantify the amount of methyl paraben in one branded and two local lipsticks. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a powerful analytical technique used to separate, identify, and quantify components in a mixture based on their interaction with a stationary phase and a liquid mobile phase under high pressure. The results revealed varying concentrations of methyl paraben among the three lipsticks, highlighting the importance of rigorous quality control and regulatory oversight in the cosmetics industry.