Although the topic is still being investigated, the main
concerns regarding the use of synthetic chemicals called parabens is that they
may disrupt hormone levels in the body. This makes them potential “endocrine
disruptors,” meaning they can mimic the effects of reproductive hormones (like
estrogen) and therefore change how the body produces its own hormones.
What products contain parabens? As explained more below,
they’re found in a variety of personal care products that people use every day
— things like lotions, sunscreen, cleansers, toothpastes and makeup.
The best way to avoid them is to use less cosmetics and
beauty products in general and also to change to paraben-free brands whenever
possible.
What Are Parebens?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, a
paraben is a chemical that is commonly used as a preservative in cosmetics,
beauty products, and less often in foods and drugs.
Parabens have been used commercially in the U.S. since the
1950s, and although they are controversial, it remains legal to add them to a
number of products that directly come into contact with our skin.
The main reason these chemicals are added to cosmetics and
other products is because they prevent the growth of potentially harmful
bacteria, fungus and mold. Their use therefore limits the risk of someone
experiencing side effects from using beauty products or consuming foods that
could be contaminated.
Preservatives like parabens also increase the shelf life of
products, making them more profitable to produce.
Parabens are technically a family of related, synthetic
(manmade) chemicals, and oftentimes several are used in combination to have the
most effects. The types that you’ll find in beauty products and foods most
often include:
• methylparaben
• propylparaben
• butylparaben
• ethylparaben
• isobutylparaben
• isopropylparaben
What Products Contain Them?
Parabens can be found in some of the following products:
• Cosmetics/makeup,
including foundations, concealers, blush, mascara, etc.
• Moisturizers
• Hair care
products, like shampoos and conditioners
• Shaving
products, including gels and shaving creams
• Face and
skin cleaners
• Sunscreens
• Some
toothpastes
• Some
brands of deodorants
They are also added to some baked goods, beverages, syrups,
jellies, jams and preserves.
Why Are Parabens Bad? (Risks and Side Effects)
Why are parabens so bad for you?
Based on the latest research, some experts speculate that these
chemicals might contribute to fertility and reproductive problems. There’s also
a chance they may be harmful for pregnant women because they might possibly
make their way into the bloodstream and affect the fetus and birth outcomes.
As an article published in Scientific American explains,
“Parabens mimic estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors on cells. Research
has shown that the perceived influx of estrogen beyond normal levels can in
some cases trigger reactions such as increasing breast cell division and the
growth of tumors.”
The Environmental Working Group (EWG), which investigates
and reports about chemicals found in various household and skin products,
reports that potential problems that have been linked to paraben use include:
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