Parabens damage everyone warns of, what is the truth? There is a lot of debate about whether or not parabens are dangerous. This is despite the fact that it is found in many beauty products, skin care and hair as well. Therefore, it is important to know what parabens are and whether they are really harmful to the skin to avoid using products that contain them.
What is parabens?
Parabens are synthetic chemicals used as preservatives in personal care products. It is also used in the manufacture of some foods, beverages, and medicines. Parabens extend the lifespan of products by preventing harmful bacteria, fungi and yeast from growing.
Parabens are no stranger to the beauty and skincare industry. According to the American Chemical Society, most parabens are found in 85% of health, beauty, and personal care products. It falls under several names such as “Methyl, Ethyl, Propyl, Isopropyl, Butyl, or Isobutyl parabens.” Despite the benefits of parabens for many products, they can be harmful to your skin and body as well.
What are the harms and side effects of parabens that make them unsafe?
With parabens present in traditional beauty products, daily use of these products over time can cause parabens to build up on the skin, doing more harm than good. This happens when these products and parabens are absorbed through the skin into the body.
Just like cosmetics and skin care products, foods and drinks also need preservatives to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and microbes and prevent the damage they cause. When parabens are ingested over time through foods or food products, the health risks and ill effects are likely to be worse. Below are some of the harmful negative effects of parabens.
It causes endocrine disorders
The chemical structure of parabens is similar to estrogen. Research indicates that estrogen-like substances cause endocrine disruption. Parabens have also recently been linked to some cases of early puberty in girls.
Over time, an endocrine disorder can lead to a variety of problems. Including acne in adults, male breast growth, developmental disorders and various types of cancer. Studies have shown that parabens can also alter thyroid hormone levels, which may cause potentially harmful health effects.
Associated with breast cancer
While some research has revealed that parabens can mimic the activity of estrogen in the body’s cells. This activity is linked to the emergence of some cases of breast cancer. Estrogen is a female hormone known to cause the growth and division of normal and cancerous breast cells.
In a 2004 study, it found some effects of parabens in samples of breast cancer tissue. The study found these effects of parabens in 19 out of 20 carcinomas. The study also confirmed that parabens not only enter the body through the skin, but that they fuel the growth of existing cancer cells.
Associated with some reproductive problems
There has been research indicating that parabens are associated with an increased risk of reproductive problems. As hormonal changes in the body may contribute to some harmful effects on mothers. Which leads to the emergence of reproductive complications, and an increased risk of cancer. In addition, it may increase developmental problems in children.
May cause allergic reactions
Parabens can lead to skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in people with sensitive skin or already damaged skin. And some studies suggest that parabens can cause some inflammation, especially for people with pre-existing skin conditions. Such as psoriasis, eczema, or even contact dermatitis. Therefore, it is best not to use parabens too often in some topical hydrocortisone creams or even antibiotic ointments.
It absorbs quickly into the skin
According to the American Dermatological Association, parabens are rapidly absorbed by healthy skin cells. In 2006, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention discovered the presence of parabens in almost all urine samples tested. This indicates the widespread prevalence of parabens. This has proven that parabens are quickly and easily absorbed into the skin, which can cause damage over time.
Do my products contain parabens?
Parabens are often found in one form or another in skin care products such as makeup and moisturizers. and hair care products, as well as shaving products. Although it is less likely in modern products these days, it may be present in some deodorants as well.
You will also find it in many hair care products like shampoo and conditioner as well. This is because it works to get rid of bacteria and fungi. However, it is also harmful to the skin and scalp.
Therefore, you will likely find parabens in many of the personal care or cosmetic products you use. Just check the ingredients sheet on the product carefully for the presence or absence of parabens.
What can you do with parabens?
There are many cosmetic and skincare manufacturers who are responding to consumer concerns about parabens. This has led to the emergence of new ways to preserve these products and extend their life, which are equally effective in maintaining the freshness and quality of the product. In fact, the amount of traditional products made with parabens has decreased. Some researchers believe that consumer pressure is the main reason for this.
If you are used to using a particular product that contains parabens, you can avoid that product and start relying on another similar product that is free of parabens. For foods and foods that contain parabens, you can buy organic foods that are completely free of preservatives. This is to ensure that you get paraben-free products.
Parabens are used in a wide variety of cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical products. It has been linked to many serious health problems. Therefore, for the health of your skin and your overall health, it is best to avoid products that contain parabens, whether skin care products or even foods.
