Parabens are a group of chemicals widely used as artificial preservatives in cosmetic and body care products since the 1920s. They are added to prevent and reduce the growth of harmful bacteria and mold, increasing the shelf life of the product. Parabens can mimic the human hormone estrogen, which means that they may interfere with the hormone balance of the body, no matter the sex. The concern with these chemicals is that scientific studies suggest that parabens can disrupt hormones in the body and harm fertility and reproductive organs, affect birth outcomes, and increase the risk of cancer. They can also cause skin irritation. Studies have detected parabens in nearly all urine samples taken from adults in the U.S., regardless of demographic. However, the FDA scientists continue to review published studies on the safety of parabens, and at this time, they do not have information showing that parabens as they are used in cosmetics have an effect on human health.
Parabens are used in a wide variety of cosmetics, including makeup, moisturizers, hair care products, and shaving products, among others. They are most effective against fungi and gram-positive bacteria, and their antimicrobial properties are most effective in products with a high water content, such as shampoos and conditioners, which people use every day.
If you are looking for paraben-free beauty products, there are many alternatives available. Makeup and skin care brands such as Burt’s Bees, WELEDA, and Naturopathica have committed to paraben-free formulas for all of their skin care products. Skin care brand Aveeno offers many paraben-free products, but not all of their products are free from parabens. Cetaphil provides a list of its paraben-free skin care products. Many shampoo brands offer paraben-free products, but few brands carry zero parabens in any of their formulas.
