Propylparaben

Propylparaben is a widely used synthetic preservative, an ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, found in cosmetics, foods (like baked goods), and pharmaceuticals, preventing fungal/bacterial growth to extend shelf life; though generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, it's studied for potential endocrine-disrupting effects and is often used alongside methylparaben for broader microbial control. It's a colorless solid, known for its antimicrobial properties and effectiveness in water-based products, but its longer alkyl chain makes it less water-soluble but more potent against certain organisms than shorter parabens like methylparaben.