P-Anisic Acid 4-Methoxybenzoic Acid Uses in Skin Care

Using 4-methoxybenzoic acid in skin care has several benefits. This ingredient is typically found in many different skincare products. If you examine the ingredients list for some common cosmetics, you may also find is listed as p-anisic acid.

P-Anisic acid and 4-methoxybenzoic acid are both the same thing. The chemical is described by EWG.org as being a low hazard. It's not described as an environmental toxin and is relatively safe to use in skin care cosmetics.

4-methoxybenzoic acid is an antiseptic. Anise is a good source of p-anisic acid. The compound is used in sunscreen and hair products as well as in some skin care products that are used to erase fine lines.