Parabens: Everything you Need to Know
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- 8 minutes read
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 paraben?
Parabens are a class of preservatives used in food, skincare, and personal care products. They are esters of para hydroxybenzoic acid. The use of parabens in cosmetic products has been declining with reformulations, however, you can identify them 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?
They are used in beauty products, skincare, haircare, and even some toothpaste and deodorants, to protect products (and you) from microbiological contamination. Preservation and product shelf life is extremely important when it comes to skincare 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 they 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 them.
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. They, 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.
They are also known to contribute to negative effects on the environment and certain parabens, like butylparaben, can kill coral. This has been a major environmental concern for some time now as they have been detected in fish and sediments when water is tested.
How do I avoid parabens?
It is not sufficient just to avoid words that include the word “paraben” on the ingredient list. You need to look for the words “Paraben Free” on the label. The reason for this is that parabens can hide in other ingredient blends. For example, a company may use a green tea extract that’s preserved with parabens, and they are at such a low percentage that they aren’t required to list them in the ingredient list. So, even though a product does not specifically list it in the ingredient list, it’s important to confirm that products aren’t using individual ingredients preserved with parabens.
Certain retailers have removed or do not carry beauty, hair, or personal care products that contain parabens, out of concern for their customers and several consumer product manufacturers have reformulated their lotions, conditioners, and other items to remove any presence of parabens.
Should I avoid preservatives completely? Will I avoid paraben side effects by avoiding all preservatives?
No. Preservatives protect you from dangerous bacteria and help to keep your products stable for a longer period of time. There are many paraben alternatives available, such as phenoxyethanol. Paraben alternatives can help to protect you without the potential negative side effects. Now you have all the information you need to navigate this complex topic. A dermatologist can also help with questions or when choosing paraben-free products to avoid formaldehyde and promote healthy, beautiful skin, inside and out.
References
Pedersen, S., Marra, F., Nicoli, S., & Santi, P. (2007). In vitro skin permeation and retention of parabens from cosmetic formulations. International Journal of cosmetic science, 29(5), 361-367.
El Hussein, S., Muret, P., Berard, M., Makki, S., & Humbert, P. (2007). Assessment of principal parabens used in cosmetics after their passage through human epidermis–dermis layers (ex‐vivo study). Experimental dermatology, 16(10), 830-836.
Soni, M. G., Carabin, I. G., & Burdock, G. A. (2005). Safety assessment of esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid (parabens). Food and chemical toxicology, 43(7), 985-1015.
This article is originally posted on Proven Skincare.
Tonika Bruce, also known as The Network Nurse, is a multi-talented individual with a career spanning over 20 years. She’s a Registered Nurse, speaker, author, and advocate for change, excelling in business building and team development. Tonika holds two Master’s degrees in Nursing and Business Administration, (MSN & MBA) and is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership.
Her expertise extends to various fields such as nursing, entrepreneurship, business, basketball coaching, and executive leadership. She is a published author of “Relentless Pursuit: Proven Tips for Unlocking Your Potentials, Limitless Success and Post COVID Syndrome: A Guide to Repositioning the Nursing Profession for A Post COVID Era”. Currently, Tonika is working on Thrudemic, an anthology examining the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on medical professionals and patients.