Microextraction by packed sorbent optimized by statistical design of experiment as an approach to increase the sensitivity and selectivity of HPLC-UV determination of parabens in cosmetics

•Microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) was optimized by design of experiment (DOE).•The optimal conditions for the extraction of parabens from cosmetics are selected.•The analytical characteristics of the developed MEPS-HPLC-UV method were evaluated.•Analysis of real cosmetics including labeled “paraben-free” was performed.