Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate
IPBC
What it is
A synthetic broad-spectrum antifungal and antimicrobial preservative containing iodine. Listed in EU Annex V (permitted preservatives with restrictions).
In this product: Antimicrobial preservative.
Dose & route, what actually matters
Dermal contact. The iodine released by IPBC is the mechanism of concern, thyroid disruption via iodine release at higher exposure levels.
EUROPEAN UNION
Listed in EU Annex V (permitted preservatives); restricted by product type, excluded from lip products, oral care, and body care products for large-area application. SCCNFP opinion (SCCNFP/0826/04, 2004) supports safety; however, COSMILE Europe notes: 'For the purpose of precaution, pregnant women with thyroid disorders and children under 3 years of age are nevertheless advised to avoid exposure to IPBC.' EU requires 'Contains Iodine' warning on leave-on products above 0.02%.
UNITED STATES
No categorical restriction or mandatory warning requirement for IPBC in cosmetics. No equivalent 'Contains Iodine' label requirement.
The evidence
COSMILE Europe (citing SCCNFP/0826/04 and Annex V): 'Iodopropynyl butylcarbamate (IPBC) is suspected of inducing/eliciting allergies (sensitisation) and triggering thyroid disorders through iodine release. For the purpose of precaution, pregnant women with thyroid disorders and children under 3 years of age are nevertheless advised to avoid exposure towards IPBC.'
regulatory · 2023 · source
California Prop 65: Not listed.
How to avoid it
Check the preservative system for Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate or IPBC. Particularly relevant if you are pregnant or have thyroid concerns.
Where it hides
Editorial analysis of publicly available regulatory and peer-reviewed sources. Not medical advice. We name our evidence and link it, including when an ingredient is fine.