BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE

TYPE OF INGREDIENT

Antioxidant, preservative

COMMONLY FOUND IN

Moisturizers, creams, shampoos

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE?

Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) has antioxidative properties, which help maintain the product’s quality, color and smell while promoting longevity. BHT works synergistically with other preservatives, enhancing their antimicrobial effects.

WHAT IS BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE?

BHT is a lipophilic, toluene-based compound used as a preservative in food and cosmetic products. Its primary function is to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils, thereby maintaining product stability.

IS BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?

Yes, BHT is safe for all skin types and tones.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

BHT may have a role as an endocrine disruptor and can cause liver damage at high doses. To prevent these toxicities, BHT is heavily regulated. Additionally, BHT has a negative environmental impact and is being increasingly replaced by more eco-friendly alternatives, such as rosemary extract and vitamin E.

Sources:

Lanigan RS, Yamarik TA. Final report on the safety assessment of BHT(1). Int J Toxicol. 2002;21 Suppl 2:19-94.

SCCS Members. Electronic address: SANTE-SCCS@ec.europa.eu; Granum Rapporteur B, Bernauer U, Bodin L, Chaudhry Q, Pieter Jan C, Dusinska M, Ezendam J, Gaffet E, Galli CL, Panteri E, Rogiers V, Rousselle C, Stepnik M, Vanhaecke T, Wijnhoven S; SCCS External Experts; Koutsodimou A, Uter W, von Goetz N. SCCS scientific opinion on Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) – SCCS/1636/21. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2023 Feb;138:105312.

Rohan Shah, MD

Author

Dr. Rohan Shah is a dermatology resident in training at Penn State’s Milton Hershey Department of Dermatology. His interests within dermatology include cutaneous oncology, skin of color therapies, medical innovation and hair loss. With a background in technology, Dr. Shah is an avid supporter of technology’s integration within the dermatology space and has published multiple papers on this topic. He is also passionate about clinical research in dermatology. In his free time, Dr. Shah enjoys fitness, playing basketball, traveling and trying new restaurants.