Bht

The Basics On Bht

What is Bht?

Butylated hydroxytoluene, a potent synthetic antioxidant that is used as a preservative.

What are other names for Bht?

2,6-BIS(1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)-4-METHYL- PHENOL, 2,6-BIS(1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)-4-METHYLPHENOL, 2,6-BIS(1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)-4-METHYLPHENOL; 2,6-DI-TERT-BUTYL-4-METHYLPHENOL; PHENOL, 2,6-BIS(1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)-4-METHYL-, 2,6-DI-T-BUTYL-P-CRESOL, 2,6-DI-TERT-BUTYL-P-CRESOL, BHT, BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE, DBPC, DIBUTYLHYDROXYTOLUENE, PHENOL, 2,6-BIS(1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)-4-METHYL-, and PHENOL, 2,6BIS(1,1DIMETHYLETHYL)4METHYL

What is Bht used for?

BHT (aka Butylated hydroxytoluene) is commonly found in skincare formulations where it is added as an anti-oxidant. Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) inhibits autoxidation of unsaturated organic compounds. BHT is used in food, cosmetics, and industrial fluids to prevent oxidation and free radical formation. It is often added to skin care formulations to protect the other active ingredients from oxidative attack and resulting degradation.

How Bht is classified

Antioxidants

Recommendations for using Bht during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Limited data suggests no known risk

 

Bht During Pregnancy

What we know about using Bht while pregnant or breastfeeding

Limited information available.

BHT was found to cause effects to the liver and kidneys when taken orally at large doses. This is where the link between BHT and hormone disruption is generally made. However, the Expert Panel argued that this is outside the scope of BHT used in skincare, as the concentrations used in skincare usually range between 0.01 and 0.1%. The FDA considers BHT as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) to use as a food additive up to concentrations of 0.02%. BHT is also not well absorbed through the skin, further mitigating this risk of hormone disruption.

General safety info about Bht from CIR

No report found.

Use this, not that!

Products where you might find Bht

Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant; COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid; Peter Thomas Roth AHA-BHA Acne Clearing Ge; Dr. Jart+ Focuspot Blemish Micro Tip Patch; Dr. Jart+ Focuspot Dark Spot Micro Tip Patch; NEW By Rosie Jane Leila Lou Candle