Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant used in cosmetic formulations to prevent oxidation and rancidity of oils and fats, helping maintain product stability and shelf life. It functions as a stabilizer rather than a therapeutic active.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Occasional sensitization reported in patch-test studies, typically presenting as localized redness or itching. |
Skin irritation | Uncommon | Mild irritation possible, more likely at higher concentrations or in sensitive individuals. |
Contact urticaria | Very rare | Isolated case reports of immediate hives-type reactions. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.