Parabens

What is it?
Parabens are the most commonly used preservatives in cosmetics and are often used as unlisted fragrance ingredients. Water is the only ingredient used more frequently in cosmetics. Exposure to parabens from personal care products occur through the skin. When parabens enter the body this way they are not metabolized as they would be when coming from food products. As the parabens are absorbed through the skin they go straight into the blood stream and organs intact. Parabens have been found to mimic estrogen which can lead to increased risk of breast cancer. Additionally, parabens can affect male reproductive functions. Parabens are also immune system and organ toxicants; an allergen, linked to dermatitis and have been shown to cause cancer in animals.

What is it in?
Parabens are found in a number of personal care products including shampoo, moisturizer, shaving cream, cleansing gels, personal lubricant, deodorant and toothpaste.

How to Identify and Avoid

• Some companies are taking the initiative to remove parabens from their products and even note that their products are formulated without parabens so this is great place to start looking.
• If the packaging doesn’t state it is paraben-free, look for ingredients with “paraben” as a suffix.
• Some possible ingredients are: methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben.
• Other chemicals to watch out for are: 4-hydroxyebzoic acid, propyl ester, propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, benzoic acid and 4-hydroxybutyl ester.
• Additionally, parabens are often used in fragrances but are not noted because fragrance is classified as a trade secret. The best bet is to also avoid products that list fragrance, perfume or parfum as an ingredient.