What Are Parabens (And Why You Should Avoid Them)

Parabens is the word that you often hear in cosmetic commercials and when discussing skin and hair care products. You often hear it discussed as a harmful substance and that you need to stay away from products containing it.

So what exactly are parabens and why are they considered harmful?

Parabens are a group of chemicals that have been used as preservatives in cosmetic products since the 1920s. They are added to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mould, especially water-containing products like shampoo and conditioners.

They keep active ingredients stable and effective, especially products where you have to do finger dipping.

Though they are added for an acceptable reason, studies suggest that these parabens can cause harm to our hormones, and reproductive system and can even increase the risk of cancer.

Products like moisturisers, skin cleansers, sunscreens, deodorants, shaving gels, makeup and toothpaste contain parabens to increase their shelf life. All these are the products that you use daily, which means your body is absorbing parabens continuously on a routine basis.

Why are Parabens bad?

Research shows that traces of parabens are found in breast cancer tissue. It doesn’t strongly prove any link between parabens use and increased cancer risk, however, studies show that parabens can pass through the skin barrier.

Excessive use of parabens can cause endocrine disruption. It is known for mimicking the functionality of oestrogen, the female hormone, disrupting the natural levels present in the female body. It can also affect the reproductive system of females and causes development issues in babies.

Why are parabens not banned?

Given the negative effects of parabens, you may think that their usage gets banned, however, that’s not the case.

It’s because there is no concrete proof of the relation between parabens use and cancer risk. Without conclusive proof, the FDA cannot ban these products.

Moreover, the percentage of parabens used is extremely less (about 0.4%). Hence, they are safe to use given their current form. And also besides the negative effects mentioned, human bodies can tolerate parabens.

Why you should avoid parabens

Even though the usage of parabens is not banned, you should still avoid it as the negative effects are not small to ignore. It’s not possible to ignore the controversy as parabens are used in the products that you use on a daily basis.

It’s because of this reason that almost all the top skin, hair, and makeup companies are now using the alternative chemical of parabens. And it’s also good to advertise saying that they only sell parabens-free products. You can buy them without any thought as they are safe and functional.

Moreover, parabens are added as a preservative to increase the shelf life of the products. Though it keeps bacteria at bay, it can also kill the good stuff if a product is made to store for 36 months. Hence, both people and cosmetic companies are coming forward to stop the usage of parabens.

How to avoid parabens

Look for natural paraben alternatives: Companies are using parabens alternatives, so look for products that consist of natural parabens alternatives. For instance, look for organic acids (salicylic acid, benzoic acid, sorbic acid) which are naturally derived.

Make sure to check the ingredient list and if you find sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, then these are natural alternatives to parabens.

Look for certified organic products: If you want to completely steer away from artificial substances, then use certified organic products. Organic beauty products are becoming popular as people are increasing their conscience towards the environment.

However, make sure to use natural products within their expiry date as they might have a low shelf life. Also, use it as soon as possible after opening the seal to get the complete benefits of natural products.

You cannot imagine your life without using any kind of skin, hair, or makeup product. So, as you use them on a daily basis, it’s important to choose them carefully so that you don’t have side effects.

Prefer parabens-free products like organic if you want to keep your mind free from the thoughts of the negative side effects. And always look at the ingredient list before buying any beauty product.