Many cosmetic products contain parabens in order to keep them well. But are they really a danger or is it blown up by the media? In this article we will tell you the truth about parabens, the cons and pros.
The history of parabens
Parabens have been used since the 1920s as a synthetic preservative in food and medicine. Since the 1950s, they were used in many cosmetic products. In 2004, however, there appeared a scientific paper in which parabens were associated with breast cancer. Since then there frequently warned via chain emails, websites and media reports.
What are parabens?
Parabens are added to skincare products and other cosmetic products to extend the shelf life of the product. Parabens are officially approved for use by the European legislation that regulates all cosmetics.
Are all parabens approved for use by the European legislation?
Isopropylparabeen isobutylparabeen and have a branched alkyl chain. On the effect of these species is less known. This also applies to benzylparabeen, which has the strongest possible undesired operation. These parabens are not widely used and the European Commission is planning to ban them altogether, as pentylparabeen.
So parabens mean no harm?!
Only because they are approved to use doesn’t mean they don’t do any harm. You also can buy cigarettes and alcohol almost everywhere. In the 1990s, parabens were deemed xenoestrogens―agents that mimic estrogen in the body. “Estrogen disruption” has been linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues. And in 2004 British cancer researcher Philippa Darbre, Ph.D., found parabens present in malignant breast tumors. As a result, experts in many countries are recommending limits on paraben levels in cosmetic products. What’s more, watchdog organizations worry that if parabens can be stored in the body, over time they could have a cumulative effect and pose a health risk.
Why do skincare manufacturers still use parabens then?
Parabens are popular with skincare manufacturers because they have many advantages. They are colorless, odorless and very cheap. They remain stable under different circumstances, have no effect on other substances, generate almost never allergic reactions and irritate the skin. Parabens not accumulate in the body, but are usually quickly broken down in the liver and excreted through urine. Animal studies have not shown to be carcinogenic. In addition, she decades are used by people without any adverse effects came to light. Over the last few years, however, in response to customer concerns, many brands have started to manufacture (and label) paraben-free products, including lotions, lipsticks, shampoos, scrubs, and more.
Conclusion
There’s reason to be mindful, but no reason to have an all-consuming concern about these chemicals. If it helps you rest easy, use a paraben-free skincare product.