Parabens

thumb|150 px|General chemical structure of a paraben(a para-hydroxybenzoate)where R = an alkyl group

thumb|right|UV-visible spectrum of methylparaben

Ethylparaben ('ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate') is the ethyl ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. Its formula is HO-C6H4-CO-O-CH2CH3. It is a member of the class of compounds known as parabens.

Propylparaben (also spelled propyl paraben) is the n-propyl ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. It occurs as a natural substance found in many plants and some insects. Additionally, it can be manufactured synthetically for use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and foods. It is a member of the class of parabens and can be used as a preservative in many water-based cosmetics, such as creams, lotions, shampoos, and bath products. As a food additive, it has the E number E216.

Butylparaben, or 'butyl p-hydroxybenzoate', is an organic compound with the formula . It is a white solid that is soluble in organic solvents. It has proven to be a highly successful antimicrobial preservative in cosmetics. It is also used in medication suspensions, and as a flavoring additive in food.

Heptylparaben (heptyl p-hydroxybenzoate) is a compound with formula C7H15(C6H4OHCOO). It is a paraben which is the heptyl ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid.

Isopropylparaben is a paraben.