Ingredient · Updated
BHT
Found in 29 productsSee all
CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 
The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane 
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm Treatment for Hydration + Nourishing Shine, Size:, Sweet Green 
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Face SPF 30 
Eucerin Original Healing Cream 
Dove 0% Aluminum Deodorant Cucumber & Green Tea 
Freschetta GLUTEN FREE PEPPERONI AND MOZZARELLA CHEESE PIZZA 
Axe Apollo Aluminum Free Deodorant What is BHT?
Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant commonly used as a preservative. It helps prevent the oxidation of fats and oils, extending the shelf life of foods and personal care products. BHT is chemically synthesized from p-cresol and isobutylene.
BHT is used in various products to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. While some animal studies have suggested potential cancer-causing properties at high doses, other studies indicate that BHT may neutralize cancer-causing free radicals. The evidence is mixed, and BHT is considered safe at the low levels used in consumer products.
When you see BHT on a label, it means the product benefits from extended shelf life due to its antioxidant properties. Consumers concerned about synthetic preservatives might choose products labeled as BHT-free.
Commonly found in: Body Lotion, Deodorant, Lip Care, Sunscreen, Hair Care
What to watch
- High doses in animal studies have shown potential for cancer-promoting properties.
Benefits
- Acts as an antioxidant, helping to extend the shelf life of products by preventing the oxidation of fats and oils.
BHT is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) when used in specified amounts in food products.
Studies show conflicting results, with some indicating potential carcinogenic effects at high doses, while others highlight its antioxidant properties.
BHT is synthetically produced and is suitable for vegan diets.
Sources: Regulatory Information on BHT
Scout's take
Butylated hydroxytoluene -- synthetic antioxidant. NTP lists as 'reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen' at high doses; flagged as endocrine disruptor by EWG.
The case against
May cause allergic reactions and has been linked to potential carcinogenic effects in high doses.
from the analysis of Kellogg's Froot Loops · echoed in 1 other analysisBHT may cause skin irritation and has been linked to potential endocrine disruption.
from the analysis of The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane · echoed in 1 other analysisLinked to potential carcinogenic effects and liver damage in high doses.
from the analysis of Quaker Oatmeal Squares Honey Nut · echoed in 1 other analysisThere are concerns about BHT's potential endocrine-disrupting effects, though it is considered safe in low concentrations.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 LotionThere are potential risks of skin irritation and hormonal disruption with prolonged use.
from the analysis of CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50The case for
It helps prevent the oxidation of ingredients, maintaining product efficacy over time.
from the analysis of CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50It helps to stabilize the formulation and extend the shelf life of the product.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 LotionIt helps to stabilize the product and prevent oxidation, extending shelf life.
from the analysis of The Ordinary Retinol 1% in SqualaneIt helps to preserve the shelf life of the product by preventing oxidation.
from the analysis of Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm Treatment for Hydration + Nourishing Shine, Size:, Sweet GreenHelps prevent oxidation and rancidity in food products.
from the analysis of Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown SugarMore from Scout's analyses
Synthetic phenolic antioxidant flagged as a potential endocrine disruptor and skin sensitizer. Restricted in toys/childcare in the EU.
from the analysis of Dove 0% Aluminum Deodorant Cucumber & Green TeaBHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic antioxidant used to extend the shelf life of products. It is controversial due to potential health concerns, including skin irritation and endocrine disruption. It is permitted in cosmetics but with restrictions on concentration.
from the analysis of The Ordinary Retinol 1% in SqualaneButylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant preservative with concerns about endocrine disruption and potential carcinogenicity at higher doses.
from the analysis of Dark & Lovely EspressoAll 29 products with BHT
+ 5 more products in the Scout app
Where BHT shows up
- Sunscreen 8 products
- Deodorant 5 products
- Cereal 4 products
- Lip Care 3 products
- Hair Color 3 products
- Body Lotion 2 products
Higher-scoring picks without BHT
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include BHT, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.