Parabens – Everything You Need to Know
There is so much conflicting information about parabens, you’re probably wondering what to believe. That’s why we created this easy-to-navigate FAQ with all the facts.
What is a paraben?
Parabens are a class of preservatives used in food, skin care and personal care products. They are esters of parahydroxybenzoic acid. Use of parabens in cosmetic products has been declining with reformulations, however you can identify parabens within the ingredient listing on a product label. Common parabens are listed as Methylparaben, Butylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Ethylparaben, Isopropylparaben or Propylparaben.
Are parabens safe?
Generally speaking, at the levels that they are used, parabens are considered to be safe. But there is a lot of controversy around this subject, specifically between paraben exposure, health effects and health risks and you’ll learn more as you read on.
Why are parabens used?
Parabens are used in beauty products, skin care, hair care and even some toothpastes and deodorants, to protect products (and you) from microbiological contamination. Preservation and product shelf life is extremely important when it comes to skin care products, especially moisturizers and creams used around the eyes. Bacterial contamination can cause severe irritation and can even lead to infection.
Why are parabens controversial?
In 2004, a study was released showing the presence of parabens in breast tumors. The online community quickly assumed that parabens cause cancer. The author later came forward and clarified that the intention of the study was to show that parabens can accumulate in the body intact, not that they cause breast cancer. However, by then, the damage was done, and the entire personal care industry had moved away from parabens.
Are parabens harmless?
Not entirely. Methylparaben is proven to accumulate in the skin and decrease cellular renewal, so it’s possible to disturb hormone function, triggering premature aging with continued use. Butylparaben has an estrogenic effect, acting as endocrine disruptors. They may bind to estrogen receptors, having unknown effects. Parabens, in general, are shown to sensitize the skin, especially when applied to damaged or broken skin. However, broken skin is already more sensitive, so this is not a surprising result.
If I’m not concerned about sensitivity, should I use them? Are there other paraben dangers?
The chemical structure of parabens may cause even the most adventurous product enthusiasts to opt out. For one, the paraben structure contains formaldehyde. Products sold in California that use parabens are required to display a Prop 65 warning, due to the presence of formaldehyde within the paraben chemical structure.… weiterlesen
CultureAndCream Author from Munich
To travel during my profession as a beauty journalist was never enough for my. Also my six month on a world trip didn’t do it. It always attracts me to other cities, foreign countries, on roadtrips and places I don’t know yet. But I am not only interested in “culture” and “cream”, I am also fascinated by people who have stories to tell . Such unique experiences I want to share with you.
