Parabens are used as preservatives in cosmetics and personal care products. These chemicals have been associated with potential endocrine disruption and adverse effects on reproduction and development. In the present study, contamination data of methyl paraben and propyl paraben were collected through a literature review, and the contribution of exposure to parabens by medium was evaluated according to the human life stages (e.g., infants, preschool children, school-age children, adolescents, and adults). Although limited data are available on propyl paraben contamination levels compared to methyl paraben, both methyl paraben and propyl paraben have been found to contribute significantly to exposure via the oral and dermal routes. For methyl paraben, the oral exposure contribution rate was high in the order of fermented soybean, vegetables, and fruits in school-age children, adolescents, and adults, however, infants had a higher exposure contribution through breast milk. For dermal exposure route, wipe-type cosmetics, oral care products, cleansing products, and body/hair products were identified as the primary sources of methyl paraben. Contribution rate of propyl paraben were found to be high in consumption of sources, inhalation of indoor air, and use of cleansing products. The results of this study can be used for integrated exposure assessment of other parabens, and emphasize the need for ongoing monitoring of propylparaben in various products.
Acknowledgement: This study was supported by Korea Environmental Industry and Technology Institute (project number 1485019557).